Manchester United's squad by the end of last season was football's most expensive ever, according to new data illustrating the task facing Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Uefa records show £1.21 billion was spent on transfer fees for players still at Old Trafford in May, eclipsing the £1.14 billion recorded in 2020 for Real Madrid. Eye-watering numbers lay bare recent under-achievement which Ratcliffe must tackle after being granted final approval from authorities on Wednesday to complete his 25 per cent purchase. The Football Association provided final ratification to ensure Ratcliffe can be handed the keys in the days after the deadline of his tender offer expires on Friday. Improving player recruitment strategies will be a major priority, with Telegraph Sport detailing on Tuesday how United are readying an approach for Newcastle's Dan Ashworth as director of sport.