Manchester United Identify Priority Position Ahead Of January Transfer Window
Man United’s sporting leadership team, led by Dan Ashworth and Jason Wilcox, and new boss Rúben Amorim are wasting no time in identifying priorities for the upcoming transfer windows, with the recruitment of a left-back topping the list of immediate objectives.
The 39-year-old Portuguese coach began training with his United squad at the start of this week, and will lead the Red Devils for the first time this weekend away to Ipswich Town, following his move from Sporting Lisbon.
Attention has already shifted towards reinforcing the squad to fit Amorim’s tactical vision; Known for his preference for a 3-4-2-1 system during his time in Portugal, Amorim is keen to bring in a specialist left-back to suit his formation.
Left back has been a problem area for United, with Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia both struggling for consistent fitness, leaving the side without a recognised left-back in recent times.
Transfer Plans: A Three-Player Shortlist
According to Fabrizio Romano, Manchester United have identified more than three potential left-back targets as part of their transfer strategy.
🚨 Man United want to sign new left back for Amorim’s system in 2025, it’s already planned.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 21, 2024
The club is already assessing options with more than 3 candidates in list.
It only remains to be seen whether it’s gonna happen in January or summer window (most likely). pic.twitter.com/M2ymz9KudF
However, it’s uncertain whether a signing will materialise in January, with financial constraints potentially delaying any move until the summer. After spending over £200m in the previous transfer window, the club is not expected to have substantial funds available in January for significant acquisitions.
Potential Targets for United
While Romano didn’t confirm specific targets, speculation has already begun about who could solve United’s left-back conundrum.
A name that’s been heavily linked to Old Trafford is Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies. The Canadian international’s contract is set to expire at the end of the season, and while Real Madrid have been seen as favorites for his signature, United are in the mix, and will take confidence in beating Madrid to the signature of Leny Yoro in the summer window.
Premier League options are also reportedly under consideration, with Milos Kerkez of Bournemouth and Fulham’s Antonee Robinson among those rumoured.
Kerkez, who impressed with his performances over the summer, is seen as one of the division’s rising stars.
Meanwhile, Robinson has earned praise for his consistency, topping the Premier League for interceptions during the 2023/24 season. This term, he ranks near the top for crosses into the penalty area (2nd), tackles (6th), and interceptions (5th), making him a solid option to strengthen United’s left side.