Manchester United’s January Transfer Plans: Focus on Midfield Reinforcements

According to reports from The Guardian, Manchester United is focusing on acquiring a new central midfielder during the January transfer window. The club has reportedly shortlisted players including Ruben Neves from Al-Hilal, Conor Gallagher from Atletico Madrid, and Tyler Adams from Bournemouth.

The 20-time champions previously expressed interest in signing Carlos Baleba from Brighton and Hove Albion but opted out of negotiations due to his substantial £100 million (€114 million/$133 million) valuation. Brighton’s owner, Tony Bloom, confirmed United’s interest in Baleba in October, stating to The Argus, “There was interest from Manchester United, and we said that he wasn’t available this summer and they went away. We’ve had many bigger sagas in the past. Carlos Baleba, his improvement has been immense. He is a massively important player to this football club, and we’re delighted that he’s with us for this season.”

In light of recent statements from manager Amorim, who noted that United is prepared to enhance other areas of the squad if the right long-term players become available, reports from the BBC suggest a potential move for Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo in January. However, United may face competition from Manchester City, as Semenyo is reportedly inclined to join them instead, especially given his £65 million (€74 million/$87 million) release clause, which can be activated in early January.

United’s squad depth is currently challenged due to the departures of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo, who are representing their countries at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Additionally, injuries to key players such as Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire further complicate the team’s roster.

Amorim emphasized the importance of strategic planning in his pre-match comments prior to United’s 2-1 Premier League loss to Aston Villa on December 21. He remarked, “The only thing that we will try to bring now—and at the end of the season—are players that are perfect for our future. It’s not going to be about compensating for the losses of three players due to AFCON. Even if we try to bring in one player, it may not necessarily be the position we need the most. I don’t know what will happen, but it’s possible we can achieve something.”

Highlighting the significance of collaboration in the transfer process, Amorim noted that while he and sporting director Wilcox may not always agree on potential acquisitions, any January signing will only proceed if both parties are in alignment. “Sometimes I have one idea, and Jason and the board have another idea. Every decision we make needs to reach common ground. That is really important because making decisions solely for the manager could lead to further changes down the line,” Amorim explained.

As United prepares to conclude 2025, they aim for a victory against Wolverhampton Wanderers, who currently sit at the bottom of the Premier League table without a win in their first 18 games this season. Meanwhile, Amorim’s squad is looking to build on their recent success, having secured a 1-0 home victory against Newcastle United on Boxing Day, thanks to a remarkable volley from Denmark’s Patrick Dorgu.