Manchester United have had a slow start to the January transfer window, and if Ruben Amorim’s words are true, it could continue to be so. The Portuguese coach confirmed on Friday that there were no ongoing negotiations regarding changes to the squad.
Amorim also revealed that he did not expect any of his players to request transfers this month. That could be good news for those hoping Koby Mainu remains at United beyond January, especially given his summer loan application was rejected. The Reds academy product remains sidelined with injury ahead of United’s game against Leeds on Sunday (12.30pm kick-off). Amorim’s side will be looking to bounce back from a disappointing 1-1 draw with visiting Wolves at Elland Road. With that in mind, let’s take a look at the latest United headlines.
Ugarte: “Rental transfer decided”
Galatasaray are reportedly preparing to sign United’s Manuel Ugarte on loan, with Fernando Muslera and former Arsenal midfielder Lucas Torreira said to be trying to persuade him.
According to a report in Sozuk, Gala has turned his attention to Ugarte and has made “significant progress” in talks with United over a move in January. Turkish favorites have suggested a loan deal with an option to buy, with United reportedly seeking a compulsory buy-out clause.
Negotiations are reportedly progressing well, but Galatasaray are said to be insistent on including an option clause, with reports claiming United are “considering” the offer.
Ugarte is said to be open to a move to Türkiye, where he is expected to join forces with compatriots Muslera and Torreira. The report further claims that both players have set goals and strategies for the current campaign and beyond, and have managed to get United players to attend the gala.
Express Sport’s Isaac Sirocyan said: “Ugarte’s contract has been a disaster. There’s no other way to look at it. He lacks the physical and technical attributes to play in a top Premier League side, which United want under Ruben Amorim. A loan with an option to buy might be best for both parties. Whatever happens, it’s hard to imagine him at Old Trafford next season.”
Brighton issued stay-at-home warning
Brighton chief executive Paul Barber has issued a warning to clubs interested in signing Baleva, insisting he has not received any communication from United regarding Baleva, speaking to talkSPORT.
He said: “There has been no communication from Old Trafford. There has been no communication from anyone associated with Manchester United. We have no plans or desire to sell Carlos in this period or in the future, but we know he is a talented player and has many options in the future.”
“He’s an important player for us now for the second half of the season and we’re looking forward to getting him back from AFCON.”
