As the January transfer window approaches, speculation mounts about potential signings that could elevate United’s performance.
As Manchester United navigates a tumultuous season, the spotlight is increasingly on incoming head Coach Ruben Amorim and his transfer strategy. With the January window looming, speculation has intensified regarding potential recruits from Sporting CP, where Amorim previously excelled. However, the coach has preemptively quelled any rumors about raiding his former club, stating firmly, “I will not take any of Sporting’s players in January. But that’s another story,” during a recent media briefing. This assertion, while definitive, raises questions about where Amorim will turn to reinforce his squad in key areas.
One player frequently mentioned in connection with a move to Old Trafford is Sporting's dynamic attacker, Viktor Gyokeres. The Swedish striker has been on a remarkable scoring spree, netting 20 goals in just 16 matches this season, following an impressive tally of 43 goals in 50 appearances last term. Gyokeres’ form is undoubtedly enticing, but Amorim acknowledges the financial hurdles, remarking, “Gyokeres costs £100m. It’s very complicated.” Given the club's previous summer expenditures exceeding £200 million and the additional £25 million in compensation for the departure of Erik ten Hag and the hiring of Amorim, United's willingness and ability to invest heavily again in January remain uncertain.
Nonetheless, as Amorim prepares to assume his role, he will undoubtedly conduct a thorough assessment of his squad's needs. Analysts and former players alike have begun weighing in on potential areas for improvement. Owen Hargreaves, for example, has highlighted the necessity for both a new center-back and a striker, despite the club's previous efforts to bolster these positions during the summer transfer window. United welcomed defenders Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro as part of their recruitment drive, alongside forward Joshua Zirkzee. Yet, early-season performances have been inconsistent as De Ligt has struggled to find his footing, while Yoro has yet to feature competitively after fracturing his metatarsal in pre-season.
United's current scoring woes, having netted only eight times in their first nine matches while conceding 11, have further intensified calls for strategic reinforcements. “I think needs a striker, and I think he needs a centre-back,” Hargreaves remarked on Premier League Productions, expressing optimism about the incoming coach’s potential impact. “But I’m just excited. I think we just needed a change, and this is a brilliant change, and I’m sure he’s going to want to spend some money.” In addition to Gyokeres, there are growing rumors surrounding a potential move for Benfica’s left-back, Alvaro Fernandez, who departed United’s academy this past summer.
Luke Shaw's ongoing recovery setbacks and Tyrell Malacia’s gradual reintegration after a lengthy injury layoff highlight the urgency for a solid option in defense. United retains a buy-back clause in Fernandez's Benfica contract, which would make him an attractive target for Amorim, familiar with the player from competing in the same league as Sporting. Fernandez, who achieved acclaim as the reserve player of the year in 2022 but never made a senior competitive debut for United, represents a viable solution to bolster United's left flank. His familiarity with the club and proven talent could provide the much-needed stability and depth in a struggling defense.
