I can see this summer being no marquee signings and 5/6 young players signed. The penny may have finally dropped but it's too late. The damage has been done.
I agree. United at this moment dont look very attractive. It doesnt mean they are not, but missing out on champions league football will hurt you massively.
I think you need to start again. I would sell De Gea. Not because of his mistakes, but simply the fact he can still command a high price, would save on wages and bring a freshness to the squad. If the players knew they would have to work for result rather than rely on De Gea to "superman" it.
Kasper Schmeichel would be a perfect replacement. It makes total sense, son of the former hero of united and a quality keeper as well.
Jamie Vardy could be another good short term replacement. Experience of the PL and he gets stuck in as well so could offer some fight up front.
Nathan Redmond is another very good player. Player of the season for Southampton and would probably jump at the chance of joining united.
I think OGS has hit the nail on the head, which will be hard for many supporters to accept, you are a top 4 team at best these days. All the people saying that they would rather Liverpool finish second than united get top 4 are deluding themself, we as Liverpool supporters know this best, we did it for years before we realised we are mid-table material if anything. Top 4 becomes the target, as it is the only way to move your squad on.
I think OGS is the man to do it. He knows you need players who will at least put in a shift, and he has seen first hand at United those who are too self important for this kind of "labour", and you will see many of them leave. His experience will get him players of the hard working types as well as talented, he will give the youth a shot in the team and get rid of the egos.
You dont want any marquee signings in your current situation, because like Liverpool, you will soon lose them when a Champions League club comes sniffing.