Andy Mitten has revealed that Manchester United’s transfer plans have changed following the injury issues in recent weeks.
Manchester United have been battling serious injury issues in recent weeks, with the problems made even worse due to the African Cup of Nations absences – Amad, Noussair Mazraoui and Bryan Mbeumo.
The most notable injury absences are Bruno Fernandes and Matthijs de Ligt; they were both starters before their period on the sidelines, but their backups are also out of the side. Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire haven’t been available during the absences of either Fernandes or De Ligt, respectively.
Mason Mount also suffered an injury against Newcastle United. Young Jack Fletcher replaced the England international at halftime, while Joshua Zirkzee started in his place against Wolves before the turn of the New Year.
While the injuries have caused Rúben Amorim a serious selection issue, they have led to several impressive performances from those who wouldn’t have played otherwise.
They have also allowed Lisandro Martínez regular playing time after his long-term absence. Martínez suffered an ACL injury in February 2024, but has returned and been very impressive during the festive period.
Mitten reveals change in transfer plans
Ayden Heaven has been the best United player during the festive run, leading to his United Player of the Month win for December. He has been crucial during the absences of Maguire and De Ligt in the centre of defence.
The former Arsenal player has impressed the United higher-ups so much, Andy Mitten has now claimed the transfer plans have changed. On his YouTube channel, he said: “Three months ago, I was told United wanted a new central defender.
“That’s changed. This situation changes all the time. Because it’s still in play, United will see how Ayden Heaven does, for example.”
Mitten went on to say: “If he establishes himself, there is less of a need to buy a new central defender.
“[As for] Harry Maguire, there’s been no talks with him. He can actually sign for another club, today. [But] he’s happy in Manchester, he’s a player on a big contract, very popular in the dressing room, but he’s not playing, he’s been injured.”
Heaven could improve in back four
Heaven has been asked to play in the centre of a back three, for the most part, but could improve further when a regular in a back four.
When United have switched to a back four, Heaven has played as the right-sided central defender, with Martínez on the left, but Heaven is left-footed.
Read More: Rúben Amorim can’t complete tactical change before 49 appearance Manchester United star returns
Perhaps when De Ligt or Maguire returns, Heaven could switch to the left side and Martínez may move back into central midfield, especially if Fernandes and Mainoo remain out injured.
The impressive Heaven could improve even more when given the chance to play on his natural side and unlock his passing range.
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