Manchester United’s executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward insists the Red Devils are working hard to sign more players in an “inflated” transfer market this summer.

United, who finished sixth in the Premier League last term, splashed out £50m to sign England Under-21 right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka from Crystal Palace this week to take their spending to £65m already in this window.

And Woodward, who again appears to be conducting the business in the absence of any director of football at Old Trafford, has promised more “exciting” signings who fit the “long-term vision” of the club.

In an internal email to staff sent shortly before the official announcement of Wan-Bissaka’s move, Woodward offered reassurances that the club are busy behind the scenes.

“Despite the inflated nature of the transfer market and constant speculation and stories, which can be misleading, the recruitment team – in conjunction with the manager [Ole Gunnar Solskjaer] – are working calmly behind the scenes to bring in other exciting players that fit their long-term vision for the club,” Woodward wrote.

Solskjaer wants younger, hungrier players who he can develop into future stars, and is now said to be looking at Newcastle’s Sean Longstaff to add to a midfield that has also seen Daniel James join from Swansea.

Woodward says they underline the Norwegian’s philosophy as the club continues to rebuild the first team ahead of the new season.

“Following the arrival of Daniel James from Swansea earlier this month, I am delighted to confirm that we have signed exciting young defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka from Crystal Palace,” Woodward added.
“Aaron fits perfectly with Ole’s philosophy and plans for building his team and is a player who will excite our great fans as the season unfolds.”

Ahead of the 2019-20 season, United are 23.00 to win their first Premier League title since 2013 and get their campaign under way at home to Chelsea in August – when they are 2.25 favourites to start with a win.