In the days of Sir Alex Ferguson and Chief Executive David Gill, United generally got their man, if they really wanted him.
Since the pair, who both retired in 2013, left their roles, United’s transfer-market dealings have been nothing short of shambolic.
It may be increasingly difficult given there are more clubs around with greater financial clout than in the past, but other clubs can actually get their business done, and completed early, while by comparison United labour, and as often as not, fail.
Just look at their current pursuit of Jadon Sancho and consider how long it finally took for them to land Bruno Fernandes last season.