Manchester United have made two fresh loan decisions ahead of the January transfer window, as they are also weighing up a third verdict.
Manchester United’s transfer business in the summer window was very impressive, with several key signings made before the start of the Premier League season – including Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Šeško.
It wasn’t just the incomings that impressed the United faithful. Several outcasts departed Old Trafford either on loan or on a permanent basis, as few players were needed due to the lack of Champions League or Europa League football.
Jonny Evans, who was handed the role of Loan Manager in the summer, appeared to have a brilliant start to his career away from the pitch, as several young players secured promising loan moves away from the club, not to mention Rasmus Hojlund and Marcus Rashford, who joined Napoli and Barcelona on loan, respectively.
While Evans has recently left his position, United’s youngsters are continuing to shine on loan. Harry Amass and Radek Vitek have impressed against the most senior of opposition in the Championship, while Dan Gore and Jack Moorhouse are more than holding their own in League One.
With the January transfer window fast approaching, United must consider loaning out more of the promising academy players. Jack Fletcher has impressed in recent weeks, but a loan move could be the best option for the son of Darren Fletcher, although some current loanees may need to return before that becomes a real possibility.
United make two January recall decisions
While many of the summer loan moves have been a success, Elyh Harrison’s temporary move to Shrewsbury Town seems to have come to a premature end.
Harrison is highly regarded at Carrington, as is fellow goalkeeper Vitek, but there was no place for him in Rúben Amorim’s squad just yet. He started the season as Shrewsbury’s starting shotstopper, but has since become their backup, following two difficult games against Salford City and Harrogate Town.
Simon Stone of BBC Sport has now reported that United will recall the promising goalkeeper in the winter transfer window. The Red Devils will also look to bring Sonny Aljofree back from his loan spell at Notts County, as he hasn’t played since the end of September.
The two recall decisions come just days after it was confirmed Toby Collyer would return to Old Trafford for treatment on his injury, and he will remain at the club when he returns to full fitness, rather than returning to West Brom.
As per BBC Sport, United are also considering recalling Habeeb Ogunneye from his loan with Newport County. The young right-back has made 21 appearances for the League Two side, but he joined under David Hughes – a former United U21S coach – and he has since been dismissed.
United must be active in loan market
With Amad, Mbeumo and Noussair Mazraoui absent due to AFCON, and Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo and Mason Mount out through injury, Amorim has been forced to use more of the academy prospects.
Jack Fletcher has played the most minutes of the academy youngsters, but Shea Lacey, Bendito Mantato and Tyler Fredricson have also been involved, as has long-time absentee Tyrell Malacia.
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Despite calls from the fanbase, Amorim seems unwilling to use Chido Obi and Lacey to change a game, as was clear for all to see against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
If the United boss won’t use those two players, they should be loaned out, so they have the opportunity to play regular football for a senior side.
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