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United's new boss will be given a list of long-term targets and told to take his pick.

M.E.N. Sport understands Reds’ officials have lined up as many as three potential big money buys for a variety of positions over seven painstaking months of scouring the globe.

They will ask the new man which one of the trio he fancies and then secure deals as early as possible to ensure they avoid a repeat of an embarrassing last summer in which they missed out on a number of potential additions.

The list is thought to include Southampton left back Luke Shaw, Bayern midfield powerhouse Toni Kroos and PSG forward Edinson Cavani - and each could end up at Old Trafford before David Moyes successor is appointed.

A Reds source confirmed a huge spending spree remained on the agenda. “We’ve identified several targets for positions that need strengthening over six or seven months and it will be the manager’s decision,” they said. “It might be the first player on the list, the second or the third. We do not want to be watching others conclude deals in August they have been working on for weeks. New players may come in before the manager but there may have been soft conversations in the background.”

As we revealed online on Thursday, United’s top brass have already put out feelers with regards to finding a new man. They are confident that the transfer targets are of a high enough calibre to be well known to those in the running for the hotseat. Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal is still the frontrunner although the source added that the Reds would not be rushed into an appointment.

It is understood United are keen to ensure members of the Class of 92 work closely with the new man while goalkeeping coach Chris Woods could remain at the club.

A return for Roy Keane, touted as a potential number two, has not been ruled out although it is understood to be unlikely. Giggs is said to have lifted spirits at Carrington and has already made a telling move - switching Friday's press conference from 1.30pm to 9.30am - the time favoured by Sir Alex Ferguson. The source added: “There’s a real spring in Ryan’s step - he’s really embraced it and has already had a positive impact.”