It is clear a major rebuilding exercise is required to make United competitive again and, if possible, a significant amount of players will be leaving.

Spanish side Real Betis are among a number of clubs trying to sign Brazilian winger Antony – at £81.3m, the second most expensive player in the club’s history.

It has also been reported Dutch defender Tyrell Malacia is the subject of interest from both the Premier League and elsewhere. Midfielder Christian Eriksen and defender Victor Lindelof are both expected to leave when their contracts expire in the summer.

Midfielder Casemiro would be released if a suitable offer came in for the 32-year-old – United’s highest earner on £375,000 a week – who has not played a single minute since the 2-0 home defeat by Newcastle on 30 December.

Forward Marcus Rashford is also on his way out, with Amorim stating: “It’s his choice. Rashford is out at this moment. I am not going to put a player in I don’t believe is best for the team.”

United have rebuffed Napoli interest in Alejandro Garnacho but there are other clubs, including Chelsea, keen on the 20-year-old forward.

The club have said they are not encouraging bids for their saleable assets, which includes England midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, but they do need to raise money if Amorim is going to bring in players who might suit his system.

And then there is goalkeeper Andre Onana, who followed up his outstanding performance against Southampton by gifting Brighton’s third goal by inexplicably failing to hold the ball when he came sliding out to collect a routine cross.

“It’s like the team – ups and downs,” Amorim said of Onana’s performance. “Really high ups and really low downs.”

If there is the smallest positive to cling to, it is the impending signing of 17-year-old Paraguayan defender Diego Leon.

Leon’s capture could signal a renewed global focus on talented younger players rather than continually spending huge sums on players with questionable records, which is the strategy that has landed the club in their current position.