Ten Hag calls for patience on transfers

While the market in general has been quieter than in previous years, the manager was keen to point out the Reds have signed two new players - defender Leny Yoro and forward Joshua Zirkzee. He also stated his belief that he has cover in every position throughout the team.

The Dutchman was responding to questions at his pre-match press conference for Saturday's FA Community Shield clash with Manchester City, where he was asked if he was close to bringing in a third fresh face.

"When we have news, we will announce it," insisted Ten Hag.

"You see the market is quite quiet still but we have done our business, we have done two deals.

"It is about timings and it is about the market options and [ensuring] in the right moment we do the right things."

When pressed on recent speculation linking United with a central midfielder, the boss continued: "I don't go into details where we are now with recruitment and what we are working on.

"We know what we are doing and I think we are in a good position with the squad.

"For you, just wait, be patient and in the right moment, we will tell you."

Asked whether the club would need to sell more players before making another purchase, Ten Hag concluded on this topic: "We did it already, we bought already.

"As I said, we have a squad that, in every position, there is double occupation."

As reported in our separate story on team news, it remains to be seen how many options Erik will have for Saturday's derby at Wembley Stadium, with defence being a particular area of concern.

The second part of the manager's press conference will be released at 22:30 BST on Friday night.