The January transfer window is in full swing, and Manchester United's plans are evolving rapidly despite the ongoing search for a new head coach. With former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Michael Carrick in talks for the interim role, the club's transfer activity refuses to stand still.
Rashford's Alleged 'Agent' Role for Mainoo
Intriguing speculation has emerged from Spain regarding Marcus Rashford's potential influence on a fellow Red Devil's future. Former Barcelona midfielder Gaizka Mendieta has suggested that Rashford, currently on loan at the Catalan giants, could be acting as an informal agent to facilitate a move for young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo to the Camp Nou.
Mainoo has found first-team opportunities limited this season and has been consistently linked with a departure. Mendieta believes the United youngster's style would be perfectly suited to La Liga. "He might well have been in contact with Marcus Rashford about joining Barcelona," Mendieta told BOYLE Sports. "As a football fan, I would be excited to see Mainoo in Spain." While the sacking of manager Ruben Amorim may alter the landscape, this potential conduit through Rashford adds a fascinating layer to the transfer rumour mill.
Zirkzee Pushes for Serie A Switch
Meanwhile, striker Joshua Zirkzee is reportedly determined to secure a move away from Old Trafford this month. According to reports from Italy, the Dutch forward is willing to join Roma and is pushing for the transfer despite the recent managerial change.
The proposed deal, as outlined by La Gazzetta dello Sport, would see Zirkzee move to the Italian capital on an initial loan. This would include an obligation for Roma to buy him for €38 million (approximately £33 million) if the club qualifies for the Champions League. Directors from Roma are said to have held further talks with the player's representatives, offering a contract worth around €3.5 million per year until 2030.
Youngster Given Loan Green Light
In other news from the club's academy, young forward Gabriele Biancheri has been given permission to seek a loan move for the remainder of the season. The 19-year-old, who joined from Cardiff City, has trained with the first team and is now attracting interest from several EFL clubs. This move is seen as a crucial step in his development to gain regular senior football.
As United prepare for their FA Cup clash with Brighton this Sunday under the temporary stewardship of Darren Fletcher, the wheels of the transfer machine continue to turn. The club's strategy in the market remains a key focus, intertwining with the urgent need to stabilise the managerial situation for the second half of the campaign.
