Sir Alex Ferguson continued to plan Manchester United's future right up until the moment he decided to retire in 2013 and even drew up a shortlist on potential signings for that summer's transfer window.
Former coach Rene Meulensteen has revealed that the backroom staff were left completely shocked when Ferguson told them he was retiring, saying there was no indication that he was considering stepping down.
As they prepared to close out the season as champions, Ferguson discussed potential signings with Meulensteen, who revealed Germany internationals Mats Hummels, Ilkay Gundogan and Marco Reus were all placed on a shortlist.