United are still a big brand now but they are no longer a team you can go to and expect guaranteed titles. How are they better (at the moment) than Newcastle which will be playing in the Champions League (where every ambitious striker wants to prove himself)? Only money, and it seems United were able to offer enough for this (82.5 + 2.5 million in bonuses). I don’t know how justified such a price is at all, for example, if Newcastle bought him (which were ready to give 80 million), then even if they sold Isak, they would not be in the black that much. However, the contract has not been signed yet, maybe everything will change.
Yes the name is still a big name in the football clubs even though their performance is not good enough to withstand with other strong teams again. The problem in United was not only the Coach but players too. And they didn't notice that on early to bring in new players to the team. They should do some mega changes now so when they finally come out again to the major leagues, they can do well.