Manchester United are pressing ahead with strategic moves in the January transfer window while their search for a new manager continues at pace. The club, currently under the interim stewardship of Darren Fletcher, is navigating a crucial period on and off the pitch.
Winger Set for Turkish Move as Terms Agreed
Sam Mather is poised to become the first departure from Old Trafford this month. The 21-year-old winger, who has yet to make a senior appearance for the Red Devils, is closing in on a transfer to Turkish Süper Lig side Kayserispor.
Reports indicate that a deal, which had been in the works since last summer, is now imminent. Mather was reportedly seen at Kayserispor's training facilities and has already been pictured in the club's training kit. Sources confirm that terms have been agreed between the two clubs for an undisclosed fee.
The local academy graduate, whose contract with United ran until 2027, will join Kayserispor's training camp in Antalya as he seeks to kickstart his senior career away from Manchester.
Solskjaer Open to Dramatic Old Trafford Return
In a significant development regarding the managerial vacancy, former boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has held face-to-face talks about a potential interim return. The Norwegian, who was sacked in November 2021, is reportedly open to the idea of stepping back into the hot seat on a temporary basis.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, conversations are progressing well, with Solskjaer named as one of several candidates for the short-term role. Former United midfielder Michael Carrick is also understood to be under consideration.
The club's hierarchy, who recently dismissed Ruben Amorim after just 14 months in charge, are keen to make the correct decision at the right time. It remains unclear if a new interim appointment will be made before United's FA Cup third-round clash with Brighton this Sunday.
United's Focus Split Between Pitch and Market
The backdrop to these off-field manoeuvres is a challenging period on the pitch. Darren Fletcher oversaw a 2-2 Premier League draw with Burnley on Wednesday night, a result that leaves the team seventh in the table.
Attention now turns to a difficult FA Cup tie against Brighton, who recently held Manchester City to a 1-1 draw, followed by a crucial Manchester derby in the league. The incoming manager, whether interim or permanent, will be tasked with securing a high Premier League finish and will likely demand reinforcements in the transfer market.
As the search for leadership continues, United's activity in the January window and their decision in the dugout will be pivotal for the remainder of the 2025/26 campaign.
