No Karim Benzema! Erik ten Hag rules out striker pursuit at Man Utd - despite Anthony Martial injury - as Red Devils boss raises concerns over FFP

The veteran striker has been linked with a move to Europe following reports of him being unhappy at Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad. That led the 36-year-old, who joined the Saudi team last summer from Real Madrid, to be linked with the Red Devils but he has since rubbished this speculation. Now United manager Ten Hag has set the record straight on a potential signing and if a replacement will come in for Martial, who is out for months with a groin injury.

On Friday, the former Ajax boss said when asked about potential signings before the January transfer window shuts: "I looked but there is no space. There is no space for FFP (financial fair play) to do something about this lack of quantity in the striker position. Of course, [Marcus] Rashford can play as a striker; we have some other alternatives and it's clear that Anthony [Martial] is out for a couple of months it's a gap in our squad, clear."

FFP has particularly come to the fore in recent months following the points deduction of Everton, Nottingham Forest being charged for profit and sustainability breaches, and the ongoing case against Manchester City, who have been hit with 115 Premier League charges. With Newcastle United saying they may have to sell players to comply with FFP regulations, now it seems United are feeling the pinch as well - not long after Sir Jim Ratcliffe's £1.25 billion ($1.59bn) partial takeover of the club.

The January transfer window shuts at midnight on February 1 and it remains to be seen what will happen in regards to ins and outs at Old Trafford. Like many teams, they may have to sell before they can bring in a new addition.