Manchester United appear to have been handed an opportunity to sign a midfielder in the January transfer window after their poor start to the season.
Manchester United suffered another disappointing defeat on Saturday afternoon, as Rúben Amorim’s side were completely outplayed by Keith Andrews’ Brentford, despite their struggles at the start of the Premier League season.
Even with Matheus Cunha back in the side, United couldn’t mount a serious challenge, with Altay Bayindir making several big saves to keep the Red Devils in the game. Senne Lammens was forced to watch from the bench again, but Bayindir was among United’s best performers on Saturday.
Benjamin Šeško managed to net his first goal of the campaign, but it remains clear that United need to improve across the pitch. Amorim’s side were toothless up front and lacklustre in defence.
In midfield, Bruno Fernandes continued to perform below his brilliant best, struggling to make an impact on the game from the deeper role. Manuel Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo also found it challenging against Brentford’s midfield three.
Casemiro missed the game through suspension, but signing a new midfielder is an absolute must for Jason Wilcox. He may have been handed a great opportunity to sign one in the January transfer window.
Greenwood set for January move
Mason Greenwood left Old Trafford in the summer of 2024, signing for Marseille in the French top division. The former England international has been key since his move – making 34 league appearances last season – but now looks set for a move in the January window.
According to Fichajes, Atletico Madrid has “set its sights” on signing Greenwood, having previously shown interest during his loan spell at Getafe in 2023/24. Marseille have valued the forward at £65 million.
As part of his move away from the club, United inserted a 50% sell-on clause in Greenwood’s contract. This means that the Red Devils are entitled to half of the transfer fee Marseille receive for him if they do go on to sell him.
The reported valuation of £65 million would gain United £32.5 million, funds that could be put towards a new central midfielder, which would be a crucial transfer for Amorim’s future as United manager.
United could go back in for Baleba
In the summer, many felt that Carlos Baleba would be the perfect signing for Amorim, as a high-energy central midfielder who is also good on the ball. However, Brighton’s £100 million valuation priced United out of a move.
Casemiro and Ugarte have both struggled to nail down the more defensive spot, and Fernandes is yet to find his best form since moving into a deeper role. A new midfielder could give United more balance and encourage the attackers to play with more freedom.
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If Amorim makes it to the January transfer window, signing a midfielder must be at the top of his list, or he will face more scrutiny from the United fan base.
While Carlos Baleba wouldn’t solve all of the problems at Old Trafford – especially after his poor start to this season – he would improve the side tenfold. It would be foolish not to consider a move if Greenwood does sign for Atletico.
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