OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER could be forced into a major clear out to boost his end of season transfer kitty.
And that could include cashing in on Paul Pogba if a sizeable offer comes in for the French World Cup winner.
Manchester United chief executive Ed Woodward warned on Friday that the coronavirus pandemic is going to severely restrict transfer budgets.
Solskjaer remains interested in signing Jadon Sancho from Borussia Dortmund and Aston Villa’s Jack Grealish – although a move for Harry Kane has been ruled out.
However the Old Trafford boss may need to sell the likes of Pogba and Chris Smalling if he wants to make significant changes to his squad.
Others who could be sold to generate funds include Marcos Rojo, Jesse Lingard and Andreas Pereira – all of whom should command interest.
Before the pandemic cast a big shadow, Solskjaer had big plans to rejuvenate United’s attacking options in the close season.
As well as a winger, the Norwegian had a centre forward and an attacking midfielder on his wish-list – with both Grealish and James Maddison strongly linked.
United were also keeping a close eye on former target Matthijs de Ligt – who has struggled to settle at Juventus.
Now though – as Woodward said – Solskjaer, like many other managers, may have to set his sights lower unless players depart.
Pogba, who cost United £89million from Juventus in 2016, has one year remaining on his deal but the club do have the option of a further 12 months.
United’s board will also no doubt remind their manager that he spent big on Bruno Fernandes in January, which cost them an initial £47m.
