With the January window now open, the transfer rumours have started to swirl.
Manchester United aren’t expected to be busy after spending heavily over the summer but the arrival of Jim Ratcliffe as co-owner has added an element of uncertainty to the club’s transfer plans.
Will he want to make a statement signing to show the fans he means business?
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Here, we round-up the latest gossip surrounding potential ins and outs at Old Trafford this month.
INS
Crystal Palace’s Michael Olise is a reported target of Erik ten Hag. The 22-year-old signed a new, four-year deal at Selhurst Park over the summer but it is believed the contract contained a release clause that United will look to activate over the summer. (Evening Standard)
United are believed to be interested in a short-term fix to their striker problem. Rasmus Hojlund finally broke his Premier League duck against Aston Villa on Boxing Day but there is little back-up for the young Dane in the number nine position. Rather than spend big in January, United are considering a short-term deal with Bayern Munich’s Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting top of their list while they are also thought to have watched his team-mate Thomas Muller. Former Chelsea flop Timo Werner, now back at RB Leipzig, is another supposedly on their wishlist. (The Athletic)
Atalanta midfielder Ederson is being considered by United. The 24-year-old has impressed in Serie A this season and would add some athleticism to the midfield. (Goal)
OUTS
It was reported yesterday that RB Leipzig had joined the race for United outcast Jadon Sancho. The England winger is currently ostracised from first-team activities following a public falling out with Ten Hag and is eager to move on. A return to Borussia Dortmund has long been mooted and the German club have stepped up their efforts to sign Sancho on loan. (The Guardian)
Young striker Joe Hugill is set to continue his footballing education with a January loan move. A host of EFL clubs are keen to sign the former Sunderland man, who has previously enjoyed a short-term stint at nearby Altrincham. (The 72)
Rafael Varane will leave United when his contract expires at the end of the season. However, any thought of a January return to former club Real Madrid has been dismissed by Carlo Ancelotti, who says the Spanish giants aren’t in the market for a centre-half this month. (Various)
