Five Manchester United Deals That Could Happen in the January Transfer Window
With Ruben Amorim taking the hot seat at Manchester United, he has a huge task in trying to turn their fortunes around. With an inconsistent start to the season, Amorim will want to make significant progress, and the January transfer window could be crucial to his plans. But United's limited funds - in part due to that £177.6m summer splurge and the £85.5m worth of talent coming through the door - will no doubt impact their decision when the winter market opens. Keeping such limitations in mind, here are five potential transfers that could shape United's activity in January:
1. Marcus Rashford to Leave: A New Chapter?
The once prolific goal-scorer in United's attack, Marcus Rashford, reportedly has asked to leave Old Trafford. Having fallen out of favour under Amorim and struggling for form, Rashford wants a "new challenge." Manchester United would accept around £40 million for the 27-year-old forward, though suitors are hesitant due to his £350,000-a-week salary. The situation is further complicated by his reluctance to move to the Saudi Pro League. While Amorim has publicly stated that he wants to keep Rashford, behind the scenes, United may look to offload the England international.
2. Viktor Gyokeres: Amorim's Former Star
Viktor Gyokeres could be one of the most exciting transfers in January. The Swedish striker, currently playing for Sporting Lisbon, has been a revelation this season, netting 26 goals in just 23 games. The form of Gyokeres has attracted the interest of several top clubs, including Manchester United, with Sporting setting a release clause of €100 million (£83 million), though they reportedly are open to negotiating for a fee between £62 million and £70 million. The previous link between Amorim and Gyokeres might be a big factor, but it remains to be seen whether Amorim goes back to Sporting for his old player.
3. Antony's Potential Exit
Since joining Manchester United from Ajax in 2022 for £86 million, Antony has failed to justify such hype. Inconsistent displays and a failure to make telling contributions on the pitch mean the winger's future at Old Trafford hangs in the balance. His agent Junior Pedroso feels that "concrete interest" for a January transfer is there, and United may let him go because they must open up roster space and recoup some of the money spent on his services.
4. Harry Maguire's Continued Struggles
Harry Maguire has struggled to find his rhythm at Manchester United despite being one of the most expensive defenders in the world. The England international has been linked with a move away from Old Trafford on numerous occasions, with those rumors intensifying as he fell out of favor under Amorim. United could look to offload Maguire in January to trim the wage bill and free up funds to sign other players. With several clubs reportedly interested, the January window may provide a chance to let go of the defender.
5. Bruno Fernandes Leadership in Shaky Ground
Bruno Fernandes has been a vital presence for Manchester United, yet his leadership qualities have increasingly come into question over recent months. As Amorim looks to shape his new squad, Fernandes may find his role at Manchester United under review. That would make him a very good player who has his say on the pitch, but United's future is not written in stone. If there's a good offer for United, they might cash in on Fernandes, too-especially if it helps in funding further strengthening of their squad.
What's Next for United?
The January window is going to be pretty crucial for Ruben Amorim to reshape Manchester United. Despite the financial limitation, there is always the way for the club to get the job done: whether it is ridding themselves of underperforming talent like Marcus Rashford and Antony or signing audacious talent like Viktor Gyokeres. United will have eyes on how this period unfolds with Amorim.
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