Manchester United are preparing for a hectic January transfer window, but Benjamin Sesco’s injury could make matters worse. There’s just over a month left until the Red Devils can hit the market for new talent. Sesco was one of five new players to join Old Trafford in the summer, alongside Matheus Cunha, Brian Mbeumo, Senne Lamence and Diego Leon.
Despite spending the summer, United have the potential to make further additions in the new year. However, Sesco’s recent setbacks could force him to reconsider his transfer strategy. The forward suffered a knee injury in United’s draw with Tottenham before the international break and reports suggest he could be sidelined for up to a month.
This could mean Ruben Amorim will have to rely on other team members to step up in Sesco’s absence over the coming weeks.
One such player is Joshua Zirkzee, whose departure has been widely reported since the summer.
Zirkzee has found it difficult to get playing time for United this season and has yet to be given a start in any competition by Amorim.
In fact, the Dutch international has only appeared in four Premier League games this season, spending a total of just 82 minutes on the pitch.
Zirkzee has only scored seven goals for the Red Devils since joining United in the summer of 2024, sparking rumors of a potential move away from Old Trafford.
However, with Sesco currently sidelined with injury, Zirksee could get the opportunity to log more game time in the coming weeks.
United will also need to plan ahead for expected squad changes in December and January.
The African Cup of Nations is scheduled to take place later this year, with Mbeumo, Amad and Nousser Mazraoui representing their countries.
This will leave United’s front line a bit depleted and could mean more opportunities for Zirksee.
Given the circumstances, it would be no surprise if United prevented Zirksee from leaving, even if he had indicated he wanted to leave and a suitable offer was on the table.
It has even been suggested that United are prepared to thwart Zirkzee’s potential departure due to the lack of other senior forward options given Sesco’s injury.
