Manchester United might regret transfer decision after Lisandro Martinez injury

It was the failure to sign a striker in January to offset Anthony Martial's injury absence that has been the talking point of Manchester United's transfer window, with Erik ten Hag admitting he had wanted to bring in another forward until being told the war chest was empty.

United's ongoing issues in complying with the Premier League's financial rules meant Ten Hag couldn't bring in a striker on loan as he had done in January 2023 with Wout Weghorst. That window saw Jack Butland and Marcel Sabitzer come in on temporary deals as well, but last month Ten Hag's squad got weaker.

That was due to the return to Tottenham of left-back Sergio Reguilon, with a break clause in the season-long loan deal activated on January 4. United explained the decision to send Reguilon back to the capital by citing the return from injury of Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia edging closer to first-team action.

Ten Hag lauds Ratcliffe's ambitions for United

United give update on out-of-contract players

"Sergio fulfilled the role he was brought in for: to provide cover for Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia while both were out with long-term injuries," a statement on the United website said.

"While Luke has missed the past two games with a minor injury, the England international is expected back soon. Tyrell, meanwhile, is getting closer to a return from his knee injury. The versatile Diogo Dalot can also provide further cover at left-back.

"With fewer games in the second half of the season and injured players returning, there will be less opportunity for Sergio to play. It was decided it was in the best interests of all parties for Reguilon to return to Spurs."

A month on that decision looks a little less wise. If Reguilon was still at Old Trafford