Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admits recruitment at Manchester United is a joint effort but he likes to see the players he’s signing.
The Norwegian has been keen to implement a transfer strategy since arriving at Old Trafford having seen the Red Devils struggle to add the right players in recent years.
Solskjaer has generally eyed young, homegrown players but the signings of Bruno Fernandes and Odion Ighalo have also proved fruitful.
United will again look to add players in the summer as they attempt to bridge the gap to neighbours Manchester City and Liverpool.
The Premier League club have an extensive scouting network who identify potential ins.
(Image: Manchester United via Getty Imag)
But Solskjaer is always keen to observe the players live before making a decision – something he did with Fernandes.
The January signing was vital to United’s upturn in form and the Norwegian will look to implement a similar strategy for future signings.
“I believe that, of course, I need to go and watch him myself,” Solskjaer said when recalling the signing of the Portuguese star.
“I’ve always known [his ability], as I’ve seen him on telly and that stuff.
“When I went to see him live he was exceptional in his enthusiasm; the way he wanted to win, that winning mentality. That was fantastic when I saw him, but I have to go back to all the chief scouts.
(Image: PA)
“The scouting network has been really good, so it’s not like I can just pick someone and, if five of them say no, then I’ll force things through.
“It’s a team effort there as well. Of course, Bruno has come in and been fantastic for us.”
United have been linked with the likes of Jadon Sancho and Jack Grealish as well as a new central defender.
The Red Devils are thought to be in better financial shape than most but will need to avoid the mistakes they have previously made in the transfer market.
