Exclusive: INEOS have a five-window plan to transform Manchester United

Sir Jim Ratcliffe believes Manchester United need five transfer windows to restore the club to its former glory.

Those close to INEOS are clear that a patient recruitment strategy is needed. Ratcliffe has, and will continue to, waste no time in building a best-in-class recruitment team, but it’s understood the club’s financial muscle and infrastructure will take some time to catch up with the ambition.

Ratcliffe is aware from his due diligence that Manchester United can’t just go on a major spending spree this summer due to both UEFA’s Financial Fair Play and the Premier League’s Profit & Sustainability rules. There may be some moderate flexibility if Champions League qualification is secured this season, or around £100m is brought in via outgoings.

Crystal Palace’s Michael Olise is the only currently-approved summer target, with the Palace winger open to the move. Most of the other INEOS-driven talk to date has been around positions not individuals, although they are naturally aware of other names that pre-date them.

Manchester United also want a striker and a centre-back, but they will have to get creative with the structure of deals in order to bring in three established players this summer, or rely on outgoings to fund their business.

Sir Dave Brailsford is continuing his strategic review, which started last year and will continue into the first 6-8 weeks post completion.

Brailsford, Ratcliffe and Jean-Claude Blanc may also have to consider a shorter-term leadership team whilst the club wait for Dan Ashworth to start; and with highly-rated new CEO Omar Berrada on gardening leave until summer. Interim Patrick Stewart is currently playing a key and valued role as part of the transition process.

Ashworth has already agreed to