Man Utd in hot water? Red Devils could see summer spending ability slashed due to unpaid tax bill

The Red Devils are reportedly in talks with HMRC, the UK Government's department for the collection of taxes, according to The i. The discussions are thought to involve potential money owed for dealings with players and their representatives, with any discrepancies owing to a different interpretation of the rules in place.

The talks come as part of HMRC's improved efforts to collect money from Premier League clubs, with £124.8 million ($158.9m) recouped from top-flight clubs last tax year - over double the previous year's amount. While good for the UK Government, if United are found to owe a significant portion this would heavily impact their summer transfer plans. The Red Devils were already constrained to a frugal January due to the need to balance the books.

Speaking after collecting that £124.8m amount, the UK tax authorities wrote in a statement: "We will continue to carefully scrutinise arrangements between clubs, players and agents to ensure the correct tax is paid. We work closely with the football industry to educate and deal with tax risk head on.”

This summer will be the first window under minority investor Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who could see his transfer stategy hindered before it has even started. United are reportedly already preparing for the sales of several players to raise the necessary funds, with the likes of Scott McTominay and Harry Maguire mooted for exits. Ratcliffe may need to add a few more names to the chopping block if said talks are unsuccessful.

Punishment to Everton and, most recently, Nottingham Forest, will be a stark reminder to the Red Devils of the need to comply with Premier League regulations. As yet, according to The i, United have not been told how much they may need to pay HMRC.