Strengths & weaknesses

Man Utd's key strength remains an ability to be a threat from all angles - be it Antonio Valencia's direct running and crossing, Nani and Ashley Young's ability to score from distance, Danny Welbeck's movement to create space for others, Wayne Rooney's unpredictability or Javier Hernandez's predatory instincts. Van Persie and Shinji Kagawa will now add extra devilment. United are perhaps most vulnerable at full-back, where defensive deficiencies can be exposed, while there is a lack of 'legs' in the centre of midfield.

Transfer plans

Shinji Kagawa's signing gives United an extra creative element and allows Ferguson to adopt a more fluid formation in games. Nick Powell is one for the future, but could be capable of the odd eye-catching cameo. The signing of Van Persie may not be essential, but will send out a powerful psychological message of United's ability to still attract top players. A new left-back is also expected, with Leighton Baines and Bryan Oviedo among those linked with a move.