The managerial saga at Manchester United continues to twist and turn, while a major transfer dilemma is unfolding for Liverpool as the January window heats up. The Red Devils are still searching for an interim boss after sacking Ruben Amorim, with a surprise candidate now pushing hard for the role. Across the city, Manchester City are preparing a major signing that could have significant ripple effects for their rivals.
Manchester United's Interim Managerial Conundrum
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer remains the favourite to make a sensational return to Old Trafford as interim manager, following talks with the club's hierarchy. However, the situation has developed a fresh twist. According to reports, his former assistant and teammate, Michael Carrick, is now edging closer and is being seriously considered for the position.
United's CEO Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox are set to hold face-to-face interviews with both men before making a final decision. For now, Darren Fletcher will remain in the dugout for the upcoming FA Cup tie against Brighton this Sunday. The club's decision to delay a permanent appointment means the interim role is crucial for stabilising the team for the remainder of the season.
Liverpool's Defensive Dilemma Amid Man City Threat
Liverpool's transfer plans for Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi have been thrown into disarray by interest from Manchester City. The Reds had been close to signing the 25-year-old England defender for £35million on deadline day in September, only for the deal to collapse at the last minute. The strategy had since been to wait until his contract expired this summer to secure him on a free transfer.
That plan is now under serious threat. Manchester City are weighing up a January bid for Guehi following injuries to key defenders Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol. Palace manager Oliver Glasner has admitted the club may be forced to sell this month to avoid losing him for nothing, stating: "I'm not so naive as not to know that if a massive offer comes from City and Marc wants to do it, it will happen." This development forces Liverpool into a difficult decision: move now or risk losing their target to a direct rival.
Semenyo's City Move Confirmed After Bournemouth Farewell
Manchester City are poised to officially complete their first major signing of the window. Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has confirmed that forward Antoine Semenyo is on the verge of departing the Vitality Stadium. The 26-year-old's dramatic 95th-minute winner against Tottenham looks set to be his final act for the Cherries.
City are expected to trigger Semenyo's £65million release clause imminently. Praising the departing player, Iraola said, "He has been top, he has given everything... I think it is good football gives him back this moment. We are not [only] losing an incredible player but one of the best players I have ever coached." The move signifies City's intent to bolster their attacking options as they pursue silverware on multiple fronts.
The coming days are set to be pivotal, with key decisions in Manchester and a potential defensive tug-of-war between Liverpool and Manchester City set to define the early phase of the transfer window.
