Manchester United's interim manager Michael Carrick is reportedly plotting a major midfield reinforcement, with a potential £30 million reunion with a former protégé on the cards.
Carrick's Transfer Window Ambitions
Fresh from a morale-boosting 2-0 victory over Manchester City in his first game in charge, Carrick's attention is now split between on-field preparations and the final stages of the January transfer window. The win, secured by goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu at Old Trafford, has provided a positive platform, but the club's search for new midfield talent remains a priority with the deadline fast approaching.
United's Pursuit of Wolves' Joao Gomes
According to reports, Manchester United have maintained a longstanding interest in Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes. The club's scouts have been tracking the Brazilian since the summer and have returned positive assessments. However, a significant obstacle is the player's cost, which makes a January transfer difficult to orchestrate.
United are not alone in their admiration, with clubs like Napoli, Atletico Madrid, and Crystal Palace also credited with an interest. In a notable development, it is claimed that Liverpool have decided against pursuing a move for Gomes at this time. A loan deal with an obligation to buy is seen as the most feasible option this month, with a permanent transfer more likely in the summer.
The £30m Hackney Reunion Plan
A more intriguing link involves a player Carrick knows intimately from his time at Middlesbrough. United are being linked with a move for Boro's highly-rated midfielder Hayden Hackney. TEAMtalk reports that Carrick is a huge admirer of the 22-year-old and is keen to bring him to Manchester.
Any move would face fierce resistance from the Championship club, who are currently second in the table and chasing promotion. Middlesbrough are desperate to keep their key asset and have slapped a club-record £30 million valuation on Hackney to ward off suitors. It is believed the club do not expect anyone to meet that price this month. Tottenham Hotspur and Everton have also been linked with the player.
What Happens Next for United?
With the January window closing in just a couple of weeks, United's hierarchy faces a critical period. Carrick will be hoping to build on his winning start when the team travels to face Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium in their next Premier League fixture. Meanwhile, the club's recruitment team will be working to determine if a major midfield investment is possible this month, or if plans must be deferred until the summer.
