Manchester United's Transfer Window Run-In: Potential Deals and Departures
Manchester United are poised to accelerate their transfer activity in the final weeks of the January window, following a significant boost in morale from their recent derby victory over Manchester City. The Red Devils secured a convincing 2-0 win at Old Trafford, a result that could have been even more emphatic were it not for several offside decisions, shots hitting the woodwork, and an outstanding performance from City's goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
This dominant display marked an ideal start to Michael Carrick's interim managerial tenure, shifting focus towards potential squad reinforcements as the club concentrates solely on the Premier League for the remainder of the campaign, having been eliminated from both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup.
Potential Incomings: Key Targets for United
With previous plans under sacked manager Ruben Amorim now potentially revised, United are exploring several high-profile signings. Crystal Palace duo Adam Wharton and Jean-Philippe Mateta have emerged as consistent targets, with the club considering a double swoop for the midfielder and striker. Sky Sports has reported United's interest in Mateta, who has contributed 10 goals and two assists in 33 appearances this season.
Wharton, a long-term target, is seen as crucial for bolstering midfield quality, though Palace are demanding around £70 million for the in-form star. He is not the only player on United's radar, with the club also monitoring Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson, Brighton's Carlos Baleba, and Barcelona's Marc Casado, the latter subject to an enquiry according to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo.
Additionally, Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes is reportedly being tracked, with a £43 million fee potentially sufficient to secure his services amid interest from Napoli, Atletico Madrid, and Crystal Palace. Carrick may also seek a reunion with Middlesbrough's Hayden Hackney, a player he admires, though Boro have set a club-record £30 million asking price and are reluctant to sell.
Possible Outgoings: Squad Adjustments Under Carrick
To facilitate new signings, United may need to offload players, having spent £225 million last summer on acquisitions like Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko. However, outgoings are considered unlikely as the club aims to maintain squad depth for the season's latter stages.
Notably, academy star Kobbie Mainoo had been open to a loan move for more game time prior to Amorim's departure, having made only two starts this season before the City win. The Daily Mail reports his relationship with club chiefs as "fragile" following failed contract talks in 2025, with Napoli previously favourites to sign him. A swap deal with Crystal Palace could see Mainoo depart to secure Wharton's arrival.
Other potential departures include striker Joshua Zirkzee, who has managed just nine goals and nine assists since his 2024 arrival and is concerned about limited playing time ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Serie A side Roma are reportedly interested, though Zirkzee hopes to impress Carrick and contribute to United's season. Defenders Harry Maguire and Manuel Ugarte were also linked with exits before Amorim's sacking, but their situations may change under the new management.
As the window closes, United's transfer strategy will be pivotal in shaping their Premier League campaign, with Carrick balancing immediate needs against long-term squad development.
