Manchester United could be set to invest a considerable fee this summer – but not in their playing squad.

According to The Mirror, the Red Devils are due to open negotiations with manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer concerning a new deal at Old Trafford.

The report suggests that Ed Woodward is set to offer the Norwegian an extension to his current deal, with his contract set to expire next summer, as well as a pay rise to approximately £9m per year.

It is money that would be better spent elsewhere, with the manager’s contract not ranking as high in the priority list.

According to further reports, the Red Devils are planning a summer splurge, with a centre-back, wideman and striker all thought to be on the shortlist, meaning the club will need to have considerable funds available.

The transfer funds then will surely set to be decreased should Solskjaer commit to a new deal, limiting the club’s options in the market following the negative impact on the club’s finances during the pandemic.

This is even before analysing the former Cardiff City boss’ impact at Old Trafford.

Brought in to steady the ship following the tumultuous reign of Jose Mourinho, he has led the club to a sixth and a third-place finish, whilst the Red Devils currently sit second.

Each season, they have not looked remotely like lifting the Premier League title – finishing 32 and 33 points off of top spot, whilst they are now 14 behind leaders Manchester City.

Of course, the Red Devils have improved their points tally each season, and look likely to do so again but only one top-four finish, surely the minimum of the club’s expectations, is not too much of an achievement.

Solskjaer has also not managed to win a trophy of any kind in his time at Old Trafford either, something that both of his two predecessors; Louis van Gaal and Jose Mourinho all did. A manager's trophy cabinet is usually an indicator of his success, especially at a club like Manchester United.

Whilst he has done an acceptable job, Solskjaer should certainly not be rewarded for mediocrity, and talks should be put on hold for now.

AND in more news, read about Harry Maguire's crucial display in Sunday's win against West Ham...