Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is keen to rebuild his midfield as part of the Red Devils’ shake-up, with a number of Premier League stars already on the club’s January shortlist.
Manchester United completed a major rebuild of their attack in the summer and are now looking to move on to the next stage. Ruben Amorim’s next task at Old Trafford is to overhaul the club’s midfield.
The futures of Casemiro and Coby Mainu are in doubt and both should leave, in which case United could make a number of midfield reinforcements. Club officials have already begun compiling a list of potential signings.
Premier League stars are also on the shortlist, but they are all expected to command high prices. But who is most likely to join United?
And could such a switch happen within just six weeks of the January transfer window opening? When you look at mirror football…
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Elliot Anderson – Nottingham Forest
Nottingham Forest star Elliott Anderson, described by England manager Thomas Tuchel as one of the Premier League’s best midfielders, is likely to be a key figure in the battle between the Red Devils and former club Newcastle.
Both Premier League teams are interested in the English player, but signing him could be difficult for both sides. Forest have firmly ruled out a move away from the City Ground in January, with owner Evangelos Marinakis putting a £100m price tag on his head.
It remains to be seen whether United are willing to pay that amount. Anderson’s contract at the Midlands runs until the summer of 2029, and he completed a £15m move from Newcastle to Forest last summer.
Then again, Anderson looks a little out of reach for United as things stand, so he could be a player they revisit in the summer.
Carlos Baleva – Brighton
Brighton have capitalized on their reputation as one of the Premier League’s most talented talent factories in recent seasons. But the Seagulls aren’t afraid to sell their star players.
The next player to come off the conveyor belt looks set to be Cameroonian midfielder Carlos Baleva. United have long admired the 21-year-old and tried to sign him in the summer.
He is expected to show interest again in the near future, but could have to pay up to £100m to secure his signature. Brighton manager Tony Bloom said earlier this season: “I don’t think Baleva is a legend. There was some interest from Manchester United, but we told them he wasn’t available this summer and they left.”
“So we’ve had a lot of bigger stories in the past. But Carlos Bareva, his development has been immeasurable. He’s a very important player for this football club and we’re very happy that he’s with us this season.”
While this is unlikely in January, it could become a realistic option next summer.
Who do you think Manchester United should sign in January? Share your thoughts in the comments section below
Joao Gomez – Wolves
Despite Wolves’ rotten season so far, Brazilian midfielder Joao Gomez has been a bright spot. The 24-year-old has emerged as one of the Black Country side’s best players since joining from Flamengo in 2023.
Recent reports suggest that Man United are keeping an eye on him, with £44m thought to be enough to seal his rise. Meanwhile, former Wolves star Matheus Cunha also spoke of his admiration for his compatriot.
However, there are some caveats to the potential move. Gomez only signed a new contract in April, but Wolves may not be too keen on making money during the January period as they look to regain their Premier League place.
Wolves also promised new manager Rob Edwards that they would not release any key players over the winter. Of course, that could change if United make an offer that exceeds Wolves’ reported valuation. United will no doubt be keeping an eye on developments ahead of a potential swoop.
Conor Gallagher – Atletico Madrid
The former Chelsea star had an excellent debut season following his permanent move to Spain, but has fallen out of favor this season, starting just two league games.
It has already been suggested that the Red Devils have lodged an investigation into the England star. And while Gallagher has revealed he is “not happy” with his current situation, he is not actively seeking a move.
He said, “No, no, of course not. I’m not happy. I don’t think anyone’s not playing as well as they’d like, but I’ll continue to work hard to help the team whenever I get the chance, and hopefully I’ll get more opportunities to be a starter.”
“I’m very happy here. My goal is to win titles with Atleti and I want to play a bigger role in the team. And, as I’ve said before, I will continue to work hard so that I can play more minutes and contribute to the team.”
Gallagher is under contract with Atletico until 2029. As it stands, he appears to be the Red Devils’ most likely option.
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