Possibly, there is a lot to point to that but the majority is exaggerated by the media for clicks and attention.
Maybe I'm in the minority here but iI do not see the problem with leaving transfers for the last possible moment and saving a few million pounds in the process.
People now push the narrative that we should've signed Cavani earlier if he was truly a target. Well, OK, but what if he was one of X number of targets and we were evaluating options? I think most people equate United's dealings with inadequacy because of their own limitations to see the wider context.
If want the target then make sure we secure the signings, if they are unreachable then don't waste time and sign the alternative that can be signed.
Liverpool wanted Lewis, they couldn't meet Norwich demand and week later they switched to Tsimikas and secured the signing.
Liverpool wanted Thiago, they dragged it too long but still managed to sign him.
Liverpool wanted Werner, they couldn't afford his release clause and they switched to Jota and secured the signing.
On top of it, they managed to sell some of their players that are no longer in the manager's plan anymore with also good fees.
We are the opposite. If VDS isn't at Ajax, Donny's saga will be dragged too long until now. The club should have gone with Telles as soon as Real asked that buy back option for Reguilon, but we decided to wait for 3 weeks until Spurs came in. We're dragging this too long.