Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS have officially secured two new player agreements within 24 hours, amid growing scrutiny of their football operations.

The British billionaire’s involvement at Manchester United has been controversial, with supporters questioning recruitment decisions, rising ticket prices and widespread cost-cutting measures.

INEOS initially promised to restore United’s position among Europe’s elite, but results have done little to silence the criticism.

Michael Carrick’s side have collected just five points from their opening five Premier League matches this season, leaving them 12th.

United have won only once, with their latest outing ending in a frustrating 1-1 draw against Fulham.

The summer transfer window brought significant changes, including the arrivals of Carlos Baleba, Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos.

However, questions remain over the balance of the squad, particularly the lack of additional defensive reinforcements.

Left-back has become a pressing concern, with Patrick Dorgu suffering a hamstring injury and Noussair Mazraoui also struggling with fitness.

Carrick now faces the prospect of improvising defensively ahead of Saturday’s crucial clash with Tottenham Hotspur.

Against that backdrop, INEOS have overseen two further player agreements elsewhere in their football operations.

INEOS confirm two signings

INEOS-owned OGC Nice have officially announced the first professional contracts of Djelan Morana and Aboulaye Camara.

The French club confirmed Morana’s agreement on Thursday, October 8, before announcing Camara’s contract on Friday.

INEOS have owned Nice since 2019 and remain in control following unsuccessful takeover discussions earlier this year.

Morana, 18, joined Nice’s academy aged 13 and made his Ligue 1 debut against Paris FC earlier this season.

Originally a winger, he has developed into an attacking left wing-back, earning praise for his pace, crossing ability and left foot.

Sporting director Roger Ricort believes Morana has significant potential, although his defensive positioning still requires improvement.

Camara, also 18, joined Nice from Le Havre’s academy just over a year ago.

The Mauritania-born midfielder impressed during pre-season, scoring against Marseille before making his Ligue 1 debut against Le Mans.

Nice officials have praised his pressing, technical composure and determination to improve.

Both agreements reflect the French club’s commitment to developing young players, with INEOS continuing to oversee football operations at Nice and Manchester United.