The January Transfer Window – 5 Potential United Targets
Manchester United’s season so far has been a mixed bag. Some important wins coupled with disappointing defeats means that they’ll surely be using the January transfer window to make some mid-season additions as they mount a push for the top four.
After their failed summer pursuit of Harry Kane, a striker looks an obvious priority, but they could strengthen other areas as they bid to boost the squad ahead of an important second half of the season.
Who could they go for? Let’s take a look at five potential shopping list targets.
Evan Ferguson
Everyone who watches Evan Ferguson play tends to come to the same conclusion. The 19-year-old is one of the most complete teenage players they’ve ever seen, reminiscent of when Wayne Rooney burst onto the scene 20 years ago.
The Irish youngster made his debut in 2021-22 but really got people talking last season with a string of impressive appearances, which included six goals and two assists.
Ferguson appears to have the lot, including a ferocious finish, great hold-up play, and the maturity of a player ten years his senior. His hat-trick against Newcastle in September was particularly impressive, with the teenager picking apart the Geordie defence with ease.
United’s search for an old-fashioned number 9 may have hit a brick wall with Harry Kane, but in Brighton’s star talent they may just have an oven-ready alternative waiting for them in January.
Ivan Toney
Brentford striker Ivan Toney has been in the headlines for both good and bad reasons over the past year. The England international was banned from playing for eight months after breaching strict FA betting regulations. Under their guidelines, players are specifically banned from betting on ANY sport worldwide, but are permitted to stake money in lotteries and online casinos and claim offers like a no deposit welcome bonus in the UK, or any other country.
Toney breached these rules 232 times, according to investigators, with repeated bets on football matches. Yet, it’s his on the pitch behaviour that United might be interested in.
Brentford are reportedly aware of potential interest in their star striker and have placed an £80m price tag on the England international. However, Toney has hinted that he may be looking elsewhere by recently announcing that he has signed with Jonathan Barnett’s CAA Stellar Agency, who count Jack Grealish and Real Madrid’s Eduardo Camavinga among their clients.
Marc Guehi
Marc Guehi has been on the books of a Big Six club before. The Ivory Coast youngster came through the ranks at Chelsea only for the Blues to sell him to London rivals Palace for $20 million in 2021.
That sum has turned out to be a bargain ever with Guehi playing a vital role in the heart of Palace’s steady defence. There, his ability to read the game alongside partner Joachim Andersen was instrumental in Palace’s revival under Roy Hodgson at the end of last season.
Guehi also excels in driving forward with the ball, showcasing dribbling skills and passing accuracy, and could be the forward-minded centre back that United have been looking for.
With two-and-a-half years left on his contract, Guehi won’t come cheap. Yet United’s need for an up-and-coming defender is evident, and they may be tempted to spend big on one of England’s most gifted talents.
Vanderson
Of all the hyped-up talent coming out of Latin America, Vanderson is one of the few who are universally talked about as a potential great.
After signing for Monaco in 2022, the 22-year-old proved that he has what it takes to compete in Europe. His displays down the right wing earned rave reviews from experts and a similarly impressive start to this season has led to links to United.
The right-back slot is one that United need to address even after Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s contract extension: AWB still needs strong competition and Vanderson would provide that.
The youngster offers great pace and an eye for an assist, as well as the defensive discipline that all top wingbacks need. January could be the time that he makes the move to the best league in the world.
Jean-Clair Todibo
United were linked with many players in the summer and Jean-Clair Todibo was one earmarked as a future defensive lynchpin for the Red Devils.
A summer move didn’t happen after his club Nice claimed to have received no offer for the 23-year-old and Todibo claimed that he was happy to stay put for now. However, this might change in January should defensive injuries occur and leave United short at the back.
Todibo has all the attributes to be a Premier League success. Strong in the air, quick, and disciplined, under the right coach he could go on to be a world-class defender. Didier Deschamps is well aware of that which is why the French coach recently called Todibo up to the full squad. Watch this space.
See More:
- Manchester United January transfer targets 2024
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