Ratcliffe focused on finding 'Next Bellingham'

Now in charge of footballing operations at Manchester United, Sir Jim Ratcliffe has ruled out mega-money transfers for the likes of Jude Bellingham or Kylian Mbappé.

The Ineos chairman completed his minority shareholding purchase in the Red Devils last month and is tasked with reestablishing United as a dominant force at home and abroad. 

Talking as a guest on the Geraint Thomas Cycling Club podcast, the 71-year-old stated his belief that big name signings are not the way forward for United at this juncture.

Asked regarding a potential move for England and Real Madrid midfielder Bellingham, Ratcliffe said: “He is a great footballer. It’s not where our focus is; the solution isn’t spending a lot of money on a couple of great players.

“They have done that, if you look at the last 10 years, they have spent a lot of money on a couple of great players. The first thing we need to do is get the right people in the right boxes who are managing and organising the club. And make sure we get recruitment right, it is such a vital part of football today.”

Later in the interview, Ratcliffe added: “I would rather sign the next Mbappé rather than spend a fortune buying success. It’s not that clever buying Mbappé. Anyone could figure that one out. More challenging is to find the next Mbappé or next Bellingham or next Roy Keane.”