Manchester United could be active in the upcoming January transfer window and one player should be heading out on loan.
After failing to qualify for European football last term, Manchester United started the new campaign competing in just three competitions.
The shock exit from the Carabao Cup in the second round has left Ruben Amorim’s men with only Premier League fixtures until their FA Cup run starts at the beginning of 2026.
That has allowed the Reds to focus on their league campaign, but at the same time it has meant that there has been minimal chances for squad players to get on the pitch.
Players like Kobbie Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee have been frustrated by their game-time but they are likely going to get opportunities going forward.
But there is another star who needs to get consistent game-time and it seems unlikely to come this season at Old Trafford.
Heaven must be sent on loan in January
Ayden Heaven joined United from Arsenal in the January transfer window this year and he surprised fans with his composure during appearances last season.
The young centre-back was described as a ‘really special’ talent but has not been able to get much game-time so far this term.
With just three appearances and 92 minutes played, Heaven’s role has been limited and the return of Lisandro Martínez from injury means that opportunities may become even harder to find.
It seems like the January window is the perfect opportunity for Heaven to head out on loan and get regular first-team football before returning to Old Trafford next season, where the Reds will hopefully have European football again.
It would not be difficult for the youngster to find a club offering him regular football after showing what he can do in the United first-team.
Could Heaven join Nice on loan?
With INEOS in charge at Old Trafford, United have not yet made enough of the multi-club model, with Nice and Lausanne-Sport also owned by the Petrochemical company.
New youth signing Enzo Kana-Biyik was sent on loan to Lausanne-Sport in Switzerland but there have been no loan deals involving French outfit Nice.
While Heaven could be sent out to the Championship, or even potentially a Premier League side, it feels like a loan move to Nice could be a great idea.
Franck Haise’s side often play three-at-the-back which would likely afford the United youngster more opportunities in the team, as well as playing in a similar system to Amorim.
Whatever decision is made, Heaven does need to get extra game-time to further his development, and he is clearly beyond Under-21s football at this point.
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