14 Transfer Budgets

"Paul Scholes as assistant coach?" Gill leaned back in his chair, considering the decision. "Scholes is a club legend, no doubt. But does he have any coaching experience?"

Tiger King shook his head. "Not officially, but his understanding of the game is second to none. He sees things on the pitch that others don't. His presence in the dressing room will be invaluable, especially as we transition into a new era." 

Gill nodded slowly. "Fair point. And I assume you've discussed this with your first assistant, Mike Phelan?"

"I have," Tiger King confirmed. "Mike supports it. He knows how much respect the players have for Scholes. And honestly, with Ferguson gone, we need as many figures of stability as possible."

Gill thought for a moment before standing up. "Alright, I'll approve it. Have Scholes come in and finalize the paperwork. But remember, Tiger, this is your staff now. It's your responsibility to make sure it works."

Tiger King smiled, extending his hand. "Don't worry, David. This is just the beginning."

As the two continued to discuss further, they reached a point where they discussed transfer targets and the budget for next season.

Gill raised an eyebrow, leaning forward. "So, you're saying we need a rebuild?" 

Tiger King nodded. "Not a complete overhaul, but a clear strategy for the future. Some of our veterans still have a season or two left at the highest level, but we need fresh blood to compete with Europe's elite." 

Gill tapped his fingers on the desk. "And who do you have in mind?" 

"I have a list," Tiger King said, pulling out a folder. "Young, talented, and fitting the Manchester United philosophy. We need a dynamic midfielder, a fast and aggressive winger, and a solid center-back to reinforce the defense. And if possible, a future world-class striker." 

Gill smirked. "You don't ask for much, do you?" 

Tiger King grinned. "If we want to dominate, we can't think small." 

Gill was silent for a moment, tapping his fingers lightly on the desk. He understood Tiger King's words, but at the same time, it was a bold statement. "Re-dominate Europe"—that wasn't something easily achieved.

After a moment, he finally spoke. "Tiger, I admire your ambition. But rebuilding a squad takes time, patience, and resources. You have just taken over, and stability is also important. Have you considered that?"

Tiger King nodded. "Of course, and I'm not saying we need a massive overhaul overnight. But we must start now. If we don't, we'll only be delaying the inevitable decline. The core of the team is aging, and while they are still capable, we must prepare for the future. I want to bring in young, hungry players—ones who can carry Manchester United forward for the next decade."

Gill leaned back in his chair, studying the new manager. He saw the same fire that Ferguson had once shown in his early days, the same relentless pursuit of excellence.

"Alright," Gill finally said. "Then tell me, what positions concern you the most?"

Tiger King didn't hesitate. "The midfield, for one. Scholes has retired. Giggs is nearing the end. Carrick is solid but aging. We need fresh legs, someone who can control the game and bring energy."

Gill nodded. "And?"

"The defense. Ferdinand and Vidic are still among the best, but they won't last forever. We need to start grooming their successors now, not when it's too late."

"And the attack?"

Tiger King sighed. "Van Persie and Rooney are still elite, but we lack depth. If either gets injured, our options are limited."

Gill crossed his arms. "So, you want reinforcements in midfield, defense, and attack? That's half the squad, Tiger."

"I know," Tiger King said firmly. "I'm not asking for all of it in one window. But we need to start the process now."

Gill exhaled, then gave a small smile. "You really are Ferguson's disciple, aren't you?"

Tiger King smirked. "I learned from the best."

Gill stood up and extended his hand. "Alright, I'll back you on this. Give me your priority targets, and I'll see what we can do within the budget. But remember, Tiger—success at Manchester United isn't just about signings. It's about mentality. If you can instill that in your squad, you'll go far."

Tiger King shook his hand. "Don't worry, David. We're going to bring United back to the top."

Later that afternoon, as Tiger King was going over scouting reports in his office, his phone rang. 

"Hello, Mr. Gill?" 

"Tiger, can you come back to my office?" Gill's voice was calm but firm.

Sensing something important, Tiger King quickly made his way back. As he entered, Gill gestured for him to take a seat. 

"I spoke with the Glazers," Gill began, leaning back in his chair. "They're willing to give you a transfer budget of £50 million." 

Tiger King exhaled slightly. "Fifty million…" He had hoped for more, considering the squad needed serious reinforcements, but he knew it was still a decent amount—if used wisely. 

Gill studied his reaction. "I know it's not City or Chelsea money, but it's enough to bring in a couple of key players. You just have to be smart about it." 

Tiger King nodded. "I understand. No reckless spending. But we'll need the right deals to make this work." 

Gill smiled. "Exactly. Focus on players who can make an impact now but also grow with the team. If you bring success, there could be more investment in the future." 

Tiger King stood up, shaking Gill's hand. "Then I'll get to work. We won't just build a team—we'll build a legacy." 

As he left the office, he knew one thing for sure: Every single pound of that £50 million had to count. The future of Manchester United depended on it.

As Tiger King stepped out of Gill's office, he heard the CEO's voice call out behind him.

"Mr. Manager, don't forget the goals for the season marked on the contract." 

Without turning back, Tiger King simply raised a hand, making an "OK" gesture before striding confidently out of the room. 

Gill leaned back in his chair with a wry smile. "Premier League top four, Champions League Round of 16—those are the minimum targets. If he can't meet them, he'll be back with the youth team next season." 

He exhaled, shaking his head slightly. "Ferguson really put his faith in this kid… Let's see if he can live up to it."

While Manchester United was strategizing for the upcoming season, their Premier League rivals were also making moves, each with their own ambitions and resources. 

At Stamford Bridge, Roman Abramovich leaned back in his luxurious chair, swirling a glass of wine in his hand. Across from him sat José Mourinho, returning for his second stint at Chelsea. 

"José, since I invited you home, then this summer, if you speak, whoever you want, I'll buy them for you." 

Mourinho smirked. "The squad is already strong, but there are some tactical gaps I need to fill. A few precise reinforcements, and we'll be ready." 

Meanwhile, across Manchester, in the lavish Etihad boardroom, Manchester City's leadership laid out their ambitions in no uncertain terms. 

"Mr. Pellegrini," one of the club's directors said, sliding a document across the table, "the board has approved an initial budget of 100 million. Spend it as needed. If that's not enough, we'll add more. The goal is clear—Premier League champions and Champions League winners. Money is no obstacle." 

Pellegrini nodded calmly. "Understood. I will build a team that can deliver." 

The battle lines were being drawn. Each club was preparing to fight for dominance, and for Tiger King, the challenge ahead was only getting tougher.