​Mail: Manchester United's January Window Targets Low-Cost Signings, Top Two Aims Are Gomes and Ouattara

November 19 – In a column for the *Daily Mail*, Manchester United correspondent Nathan Salt addressed topics and situations concerning the club in a fan Q&A.  

On United's Current Situation 
The international break may have come at an inconvenient time for a Manchester United side in strong form.  

We’ve rarely been able to say that in recent years! But a five-match unbeaten run in the Premier League (now just four points behind second place) means Rúben Amorim may, for the first time in his tenure at Old Trafford, have genuine momentum. Further boosting morale, United will face only one top-eight side (sixth-placed Aston Villa) in their next 10 Premier League fixtures.  

Will Zirkzee Get More Opportunities During Šeško's Absence?  
The decision to sell Rasmus Højlund in the summer and retain only one recognized senior striker means United have been playing a game of "Russian roulette" with the position. While Matheus Cunha is the most likely deputy for Šeško, Zirkzee's situation now becomes particularly crucial.  

The *Mail* first revealed Zirkzee's frustration with his current situation. If he fails to secure sufficient playing time by the January window, he will seek a move away. Roma are monitoring developments closely, considering a loan deal with an option to buy. The Dutch forward ranks second-lowest in minutes played among United's outfield players this season – only ahead of youngster Fletcher Fleming. Notably, his 12 appearances amount to just 90 total minutes, with a mere 13 minutes since September 15. However, sources close to the player believe this presents a critical opportunity to prove his worth. Team selection against Everton will be a significant indicator.  

What to Expect in the January Window? 
The club prefers to capitalize on market opportunities rather than fixate on long-term targets (such as Elliot Anderson or Adam Wharton). United executives believe neither English midfielder, nor Brighton's Carlos Baleba, are likely January arrivals, but cost-effective options like Wolves' João Gomes are under consideration. Additionally, despite Liverpool leading the race, Bournemouth's Dango Ouattara remains on United's radar. United are also expected to closely monitor Marc Guéhi's situation, as his contract enters its final six months. Signing a center-back is one of United's objectives, especially with limited progress on Harry Maguire's contract renewal – Maguire's deal expires this summer.  

Primary Midfield Target?  
Elliot Anderson. With Christian Eriksen departing on a free, Hannibal Mejbri out on loan, Kobbie Mainoo out of favor, and Casemiro turning 33, a midfield rebuild is essential. Although Nottingham Forest are tough negotiators and Anderson – a key figure in Thomas Tuchel's England World Cup setup – would command a fee exceeding £100 million, there is a strong internal belief that the club cannot afford to miss out on another top English prospect, having previously failed to sign Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham.  

Does the Management Truly Value the Academy?  
Sir Jim Ratcliffe's comments about the academy being in "serious decline" certainly caused embarrassment. However, Director of Football Jason Wilcox frequently attends youth matches, new Academy Director Travis Binnion is settling in, and Darren Fletcher's U18 side is highly regarded. Despite the owner's critical stance, those on the ground remain fully committed.  

Potential Loan Candidates in January?  
Ethan Bisanire, Reece Bennett, and James Fitzgerald are the three most likely to secure loans. While 18-year-old Jaydan Lacey has attracted significant interest, the club is not currently considering a loan. Finley McAllister's plans were disrupted by an orbital fracture, and the future of Maqueda midfielder Lesotho U20 international is still under assessment. Brandon Williams' success in Scotland has increased attention on Bennett, while Fitzgerald needs experience in professional football. All academy loan decisions involve input from Wilcox, Amorim, Fletcher, and head of academy player support Phil Bunkum, with head of loan management David Evans coordinating.  

How Do Players Find Working with Amorim?  
The manager is direct but approachable, and enjoys joking with familiar journalists. The club initially found him overly candid (such as labeling the team the "worst United side ever"), but he has since become more measured in his comments. He understands media work and is considered more approachable than many other Premier League managers.  

Which Academy Players Could Get Opportunities During AFCON?  
Lacey is the most likely to make his first-team debut, with Shea Fletcher (highly rated by Amorim) next in line. Sam Kamason (out for a month with injury) and Silva Mantato (participating in the U17 World Cup) have slimmer chances. With Jean-Philippe Mateta and Amad Diallo away at AFCON, the opening on the right wing could provide Lacey a pathway.  

How Are the U18s Performing?  
Fletcher's team started the season with five consecutive wins and clean sheets but have dipped in form recently (three losses, two draws in their last five). Though sitting fourth and seven points behind Manchester City (having played a game more), the club has emphasized to parents that individual development is as important as results. Fifteen-year-old Gabriele Bianchini and sixteen-year-old Kai Rooney – who turned 16 two weeks ago – are standout talents in a young squad that also includes Tyler Brown, Rohan Shah, and Jayce Ajayi. The FA Youth Cup tie against Peterborough United in the second week of December will offer the public a first live look at these emerging talents.  

Source: Daily Mail