Not Martial or Varane – Man Utd ‘decide two low-cost signings’ to make in January transfer window
Manchester United is reportedly in the market for a budget-friendly striker and a right-sided center-back in the upcoming transfer window.
The January period is expected to be active for the 13-time Premier League champions, although uncertainty looms over Old Trafford as the club awaits a potential 25% investment from Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS.
Pending approval of the British billionaire’s proposal for a minority stake, he plans to introduce a new sporting director to manage transfers, with Ratcliffe and his team taking charge of football operations at the club.
Financial constraints due to FFP regulations are limiting United’s spending, and with Ratcliffe’s proposal lacking a clear timeline, the club needs to be cautious about expenditures.
Erik ten Hag, according to the Athletic, desires additional firepower in the form of a striker and a right-sided center-back, with expectations that these transfers will be either cost-effective, on loan, or facilitated by player exits.
On the departure front, numerous Man Utd players are linked with moves away. Jadon Sancho, excluded from the first team after a social media dispute with his manager, is considered surplus to requirements.
While interest from Serie A, Bundesliga, and the Turkish Super Lig exists, his wage demands pose a hurdle.
Additionally, United’s reported pursuit of a striker and right-sided center-back aligns with rumors linking Anthony Martial and Raphael Varane to potential exits.
Varane is said to be of interest to Real Madrid, his former club, while United is reportedly open to letting Martial leave on a free transfer at the end of the season.
Donny van de Beek is set to depart on January 1, joining Eintracht Frankfurt on loan. Casemiro, enticed by a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia, is contemplating his options, with potential moves for Sancho, Varane, and Martial being discussed in talks between Director of Football John Murtough and Saudi Pro League officials.
