This is where the narrative doesn't match reality for me.
They signed CCV permanent, we re-signed Goldson and brought in Souttar. In what world can that be perceived as them strengthening whilst we stand still, which is constantly being peddled on here?
Have Jota and the LB actually even signed and been announced yet? Not as far as I know. If Kent were to extend and Bassey stay (this boy would have to be outstanding to be better than Bassey) then it is the same as above, they aren't moving ahead of us.
If you look at the first post of our transfer thread we are linked to about 15 players but just like Souza it doesn't mean we are actually going to get them. If reports are accurate then we've actually bid for Colak, a position we badly need to strengthen in, and are marked with an interest in other attacking players. Again I don't see how they are somehow being more proactive than we are.
As for them signing a decent back up goalie, as much as I didn't agree with it at the time, there is no difference between that and McGregor extending another season in terms of the support role and I'd go as far as to argue JM is a better overall fit for our style of play and will be an improvement in that area. We are doing business. Just because we aren't splashing millions on multiple players doesn't mean we aren't doing business early as you put it.