Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim could oversee a transformative January transfer window, with a major departure and several strategic signings on the cards to revitalise the squad.
Rashford's Potential Barcelona Exit
The most significant development could involve Marcus Rashford sealing a permanent move away from Old Trafford. Reports suggest his impressive loan form at Barcelona has put a £28 million transfer on the table. While a deal being finalised in January may be optimistic, it represents a clear path forward.
A swift resolution is viewed as positive for all parties, with Rashford's ties to Manchester appearing irreparable. His exit would also bring substantial financial relief, clearing his £300,000-a-week salary from the wage bill. This would save the club around £16 million over the remaining two years of his contract, funds that could be immediately reinvested.
Midfield Reinforcements: The Conor Gallagher Option
With captain Bruno Fernandes facing a lengthy injury absence – potentially his longest since arriving in England – United are in need of midfield reinforcements. Conor Gallagher emerges as a prime, realistic target.
The former Chelsea player, now at Atletico Madrid, has fallen out of favour under Diego Simeone, making only eight starts this season. A fee in the region of £26 million could secure his services, possibly via an initial loan. His versatility and energy would help fill the void left by Fernandes and provide cover across midfield.
Attacking Depth: Scouting German Prodigy Said El Mala
Despite summer signings like Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha, United's attack looks thin, especially with Sesko injured. This has led the club to scout Koln's 19-year-old German talent, Said El Mala.
Though not a natural out-and-out striker, the 6'2" teenager has shown remarkable promise, scoring six goals and providing three assists in just 15 Bundesliga appearances this term. While Amorim's 3-4-2-1 system doesn't typically use wingers, El Mala's raw talent and goal-scoring instinct make him a compelling project for the future.
United would need to act fast, however, as European giants including Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Manchester City, and Tottenham are also monitoring the player, who is contracted to Koln until 2030.
Squad Challenges and Window Outlook
Amorim's options are currently limited by the Africa Cup of Nations, which has called away Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, and Noussair Mazraoui, compounding existing injury issues. A January shake-up is seen as increasingly beneficial to maintain a promising season.
While a move for Gallagher might impact minutes for academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo, the immediate need for proven quality is pressing. The potential Rashford sale to Barcelona remains the linchpin, offering the financial freedom and squad clarity needed to execute Amorim's plans effectively in this critical winter window.
