Manchester United are preparing to revisit the transfer market in January as Erik ten Hag looks to address the deepening winger crisis at Old Trafford. The club have been left short in attack following Jadon Sancho's continued exile from the first-team squad and Antony's indefinite absence while he contests allegations of domestic violence, which he denies. Amad Diallo, who impressed on loan at Sunderland last season, is also sidelined with a knee injury sustained in pre-season.
With Facundo Pellistri expected to feature on the right flank against Brighton this weekend, United have already begun considering long-term reinforcements. According to reports, Ten Hag has turned his attention to Napoli winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who played a pivotal role in the Italian club's Serie A title triumph last season, scoring 14 goals. United are said to be one of several Premier League clubs tracking the Georgian, with Newcastle, Manchester City, and Liverpool also previously linked.
However, securing a deal for Kvaratskhelia will be far from straightforward. Napoli are reportedly reluctant to sell, and the player's agent, Christian Emile, poured cold water on a January exit, stating there was a zero per cent chance of a move happening. Emile did suggest that continued exceptional performances could see Kvaratskhelia's value reach €100m (£86.7m) in the future. The winger's father, Badri Kvaratskhelia, has also insisted that his son is not focused on a Premier League transfer or new contract discussions at this time.
United may need to raise funds before making a significant outlay due to Financial Fair Play restrictions. A loan deal, similar to the one that brought Sofyan Amrabat to the club, could therefore be the initial approach. Ten Hag will also be aware of the high regard in which Kvaratskhelia is held by Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who described the 22-year-old as "really good" and "really quick" after facing Napoli in the Champions League last season, highlighting his speed, directness, and ability to go inside or outside.
