"You have to..." - Ten Hag provides fascinating transfer insight ahead of the January window

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has given insight into what he looks for in potential signings in a recent interview.

Currently fifth in the Premier League, United are likely to enter the transfer market in January, particularly following Cristiano Ronaldo's departure from the club.

Portugal and Benfica striker Goncalo Ramos has been linked with the club in recent weeks as a potential replacement for Ronaldo, while Ten Hag reportedly has his sights set on another targets.

The Dutchman has already six players since arriving at Old Trafford in the summer, at a total cost of around £227m, according to Sky Sports.

Ten Hag reveals how he selects transfer targets

During a candid interview on Manchester United’s website, Ten Hag emphasised the importance of personality, as well as ability, when it comes to deciding whether or not to sign a player.

"We looked and with football players clearly that is the first thing, the capabilities a player has," he said.

"The human being behind is also an important factor, but you can't underestimate that."

Ten Hag also highlighted the importance of strong mentality in not only winning games, but getting Manchester United back to the top.

"You need the right characters in your dressing room, not only if you want to win a game, but if you want to win trophies," he added.

Despite Manchester United's steady improvement throughout the season, Ten Hag remains careful not to get too carried away with their progress.

"I have the feeling, we have the feeling, that we are in the right direction, but we also know that it’s still a lot of work to do for us here," added Ten Hag.

Lisandro Martinez, signed from Ajax in the summer, has settled into Manchester United’s central defence comfortably, whilst both Christian Eriksen and Casemiro have established themselves as key players in the side.

Tyrell Malacia has been locked in competition with Luke Shaw for the competitive left back position, and Antony has shown moments of exquisiteness since he, like Martinez and Ten Hag himself, made the move from Ajax to Old Trafford.

Ten Hag’s side are currently preparing for the return of the Premier League later this month are in action tonight against Spanish side Cadiz in a mid-season friendly.