David Moyes intends to make the club-record acquisition of Juan Mata the first of a ruthless overhaul of Manchester United's squad. The Scot is targeting the recruitment of five more players at the peak of their careers – ideally over the age of 25, with the quality and desire to accumulate trophies.
Under Moyes' direction, United are exploring deals for an unusually large cohort of players across Europe. They are looking for a forward, two midfielders and at least two defenders. Further moves are possible before the window closes with the aim of having all six key recruits in place next season.
United's current transfer activities contrast to the discreetly prepared and precisely executed approach of Sir Alex Ferguson and David Gill, who stood down as CEO in the summer. “I don't think even Man United know exactly what they are going to do,” said one senior football figure last week.
Among deals being considered are moves for Southampton left back Luke Shaw, Bayern defender Dante and midfielder Toni Kroos, Inter's Fredy Guarin, FC Porto's Fernando, Juventus' Paul Pogba, and Dortmund's Marco Reus. The situation of Glen Johnson, told he can only extend his Liverpool contract if he accepts a drop in his £130,000 pw wages, also interests.
Having pursued a controversial strategy of reinstating Wayne Rooney as United's most important player at the cost of the respect of some team-mates, Moyes sanctioned discussions to agree a new contract with the England international. An exact salary has yet to be agreed, but if Rooney signs he will be elevated above Robin van Persie as the club's best-paid individual. Rooney wants to be certain more major signings will follow.
Van Persie's discontent under Moyes and his injury issues have rendered last season's leading scorer expendable. Moyes is in the process of selling full back Fabio, and wants brother Rafael out by the summer. A third Brazilian, Anderson, has been loaned to Fiorentina, though the Serie A club has no formal option to buy.
While Moyes told friends last summer he had doubts about the squad he was inheriting, attempts to land marquee signings Cristiano Ronaldo, Cesc Fabregas and Gareth Bale all failed, resulting in a £27.5m move for Marouane Fellaini. Six months which have left United competing solely for the Champions League hardened Moyes' opinions towards them.
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