Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is preparing for a pivotal January transfer window, with the club reportedly willing to part ways with four members of the current squad. The news comes as the Red Devils receive a minor boost regarding player availability ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations.
United Open to January Sales for Squad Players
According to a report from ESPN, Manchester United are prepared to listen to offers for Kobbie Mainoo, Joshua Zirkzee, Manuel Ugarte, and Tyrell Malacia when the market reopens next month. The primary motivation behind the potential clear-out is understood to be the need to raise funds for the club's own midfield targets.
All four players have found consistent game time hard to come by this season. Summer signing Manuel Ugarte has made just three starts, while striker Joshua Zirkzee has only recently returned to the starting line-up due to injuries elsewhere. England youth international Kobbie Mainoo's sole start came in the cup defeat to Grimsby, and left-back Tyrell Malacia is yet to feature at all this campaign.
The situation presents a logistical challenge for Amorim, however. Offloading players early in the window could leave the squad dangerously thin, particularly while the Africa Cup of Nations is ongoing and several key players are away on international duty.
AFCON Departures Delayed for Key Trio
In a related development, United have received a welcome reprieve concerning the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations. A new FIFA ruling means the club can now retain their AFCON-bound players until December 15, a week later than initially anticipated.
This change means Bryan Mbeumo, Amad, and Noussair Mazraoui will now be eligible for United's Premier League away fixture against Wolves on Monday, December 8. It remains unclear, however, if the extension will allow them to also face Bournemouth at Old Trafford on December 15, the very day of the new deadline.
Mbeumo is set to represent Cameroon at the tournament, Amad will play for hosts Ivory Coast, and Mazraoui will join up with Morocco. The competition runs from December 21 until January 18.
Amorim's Balancing Act Ahead of Busy Period
These off-pitch developments come as Manchester United focus on their on-field commitments. Amorim's side responded to a disappointing home defeat to 10-man Everton by securing a 2-1 away win at Crystal Palace last weekend, showcasing an impressive second-half display.
The team now faces a quick turnaround, hosting West Ham United at Old Trafford on Thursday night as they aim to build another positive run of form. The manager previously addressed the AFCON situation, stating the club would try to retain players for as long as possible while respecting the regulations.
The January window will be a critical test of the club's strategy, as they look to balance the books and reshape the squad without compromising their competitiveness during a busy festive period and international tournament.
