Next Move for Nico Williams and Chido Obi-Martin in Spotlight
January could be a telling month for Manchester United as Marcus Rashford's future threatens to remain in the lurch amidst reported transfers, with one claiming he had told the club of his need for a "new challenge" and was dropped consecutively from United's last three matchday squads to invite suggestions he will quit. Should the England international move on, then Manchester United may already have some replacements lined up.
Nico Williams on Manchester United's Radar
One of the key targets is highly-rated winger Nico Williams of Athletic Club. The star of Spain in Euro 2024, Williams has a £48 million release clause in his contract. Despite strong links to Barcelona this summer, the 21-year-old opted to stay at Athletic Club. However, with Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona also showing interest, Manchester United reportedly monitor the situation of the youngster very closely.
Williams has been in great form this season with 2 goals and 5 assists in 23 games. His last season performances, which reaped 19 assists and 8 goals in 37 matches have further enhanced his reputation. As unlikely as it may be, a move to Manchester United with Barcelona's financial issues and the likely sales, the Red Devils could quite possibly go in for him in mid-season if Rashford's transfer funds it.
Manchester United Eye Arsenal Academy Star Chido Obi-Martin and Rival Ayden Heaven
In other transfer news, Manchester United could reportedly launch a raid on another talented player, Chido Obi-Martin, who signed in this summer window from Arsenal. United's scouts have also reportedly targeted another academy starlet Ayden Heaven, who might be on his way out of Arsenal. 18-year-old Heaven is rumoured to be unwilling to sign a professional contract with the Gunners, offering Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool free rein to go after the teenager.
United are known for their desire to bring through homegrown talent, with a succession of top-class youngsters emerging from the academy. Given that Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho have already broken into the first team, United's move to tie down promising youngsters like Heaven could be part of their long-term strategy.
Conclusion
As Manchester United heads into a busy January transfer window, their pursuit of top talent like Nico Williams, along with emerging stars like Ayden Heaven, shows an intention to strengthen both short and long term. With the future of Marcus Rashford clouded, supporters should expect possible moves that will shake up the roster in-store for the team in upcoming months.
