Manchester United look set to enter the January transfer market, but will face competition from Aston Villa for their first target.
Manchester United look set for an interesting January transfer window, following Rúben Amorim’s dismissal at the start of the month.
While Jason Wilcox and the higher-ups have reportedly arranged talks with Michael Carrick and Ole Gunnar Solskjær, it isn’t yet clear who will lead United into the second half of the season.
It seems most likely that Darren Fletcher won’t continue as manager, following his debut against Burnley on Wednesday evening, although he will also be under consideration, as will Ruud van Nistelrooy.
United are without several of their best players due to AFCON and injuries, but new signings will be key if the Red Devils want to maintain their Champions League charge for the rest of the campaign.
Another season without European football simply won’t do for United, so improving their Premier League form will be key, no matter who the head coach is.
United eye Muharemovic for January
While United appear to be moving away from a back-three formation without Amorim in charge, the first signing under the new management could be a new central defender.
As per Caught Offside, United are reportedly interested in signing Sassulo centre-back Tarik Muharemovic. The Bosnian is a 22-year-old central defender in his first season of regular Serie A football.
Muharemovic is a versatile, left-footed defender who can play in the centre or as a full-back. In truth, someone of his profile would’ve been a good signing for Amorim’s system, but may not be needed if United make a permanent switch to a four-man defence.
Aston Villa are also said to be interested in the young Bosnian, so United may be forced to look for alternative options. However, with Ayden Heaven and Lisandro Martínez impressing in recent weeks, another left-footed defender shouldn’t be the priority.
Matthijs de Ligt and Harry Maguire also look set to return to full fitness in the coming weeks, meaning United’s defensive lineup will be more than stacked for a back-four shape.
United make first sale of January
While United’s first team are focusing on new additions, Sam Mather has become the first player to leave the club this window after coming close towards the end of the summer.
The young winger will sign for Kayserispor as per MEN. The Turkish side maintained their interest after the summer disappointment.
Mather could be the first of several to leave this January, with lots of young players looking at loan moves for the second half of the season.
Sékou Koné and Gabriele Biancheri are the two youngsters to keep an eye on, but Darren Fletcher’s appointment could change the fate of some academy stars.
Make sure to follow UtdDistrict on X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to never miss out on any of our Manchester United content. Our podcast, What the Devil?, is streamed live every Thursday at 14:00 pm (GMT) on the United View YouTube channel.