Manchester United are anticipating a quiet January transfer window, but manager Ruben Amorim has not completely ruled out the possibility of making new signings. The club has indicated it is prepared to act if the right market opportunity presents itself.
Amorim's Transfer Window Stance
While a major squad overhaul is expected to be postponed until the summer, the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) could force United's hand. The club will be without key players Bryan Mbeumo, Amad, and Noussair Mazraoui for a period during the winter tournament, creating a potential shortage.
Amorim acknowledged the challenge, stating, "Of course, we are going to have a problem there [with AFCON]. But we already knew. Then you can prepare that in the summer, but then you have a lot of players in the summer who are not going to play because it's one game per week. So the management of that situation is going to be hard."
He added that the club will assess the situation when the window opens, saying, "But let's see when the window is open, if we can improve the team and try to prepare something that happened. Until then, we have to take the chance."
Four Potential Transfer Opportunities
According to reports, Manchester United are monitoring four specific players ahead of the January window, though several moves are considered difficult.
Joao Gomes: A move for the Wolves midfielder is viewed as a potential 'low-cost' option that could be considered to bolster the squad.
Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, and Carlos Baleba: Moves for this trio of midfielders are currently seen as unlikely in January. United's interest is firm, but securing their signatures this winter is a complex prospect.
The club is also keeping tabs on other possibilities, including:
- Antoine Semenyo: The Bournemouth forward has a release clause of £60million plus £5m in add-ons that becomes active in January, though Liverpool are reportedly favourites.
- Marc Guehi: The Crystal Palace defender will enter the final six months of his contract in January. United's interest could be heightened by the lack of progress in extending Harry Maguire's deal, which also expires in the summer. Liverpool are also keen on Guehi after a £35m deadline day move collapsed.
United's Top Target Remains Elusive
Despite the various names linked, the report confirms that Brighton's Carlos Baleba remains United's 'top target'. The club made a late push for the midfielder in the summer but failed to agree a deal with Brighton.
It is understood that it would require a fee in excess of £100m to persuade Brighton to part with the player, a significant financial hurdle for a January move. While United could bring forward a summer deal if an opportunity arises, a major splash on Baleba next month appears improbable.
The overarching strategy at Old Trafford points towards a cautious January, with a greater focus on utilising the academy to cover short-term absences, while laying the groundwork for more substantial business when the season concludes.
