As is the case for most clubs in the January window, Manchester United’s incomings will likely be dependent on any potential outgoings.
Currently for the Red Devils, the only senior players who look nailed-on to leave are Jadon Sancho and Donny van de Beek. Reports have suggested that Raphael Varane and Casemiro are up for sale this winter but given United’s debilitating injury crisis so far this term, it seems ill-advised to sell two of the club’s most reliable and experienced figures mid-season.
Of course, there are always additions that could benefit the squad as they look to oversee an improved second half of the campaign following a record-breakingly poor start, however, another high-spending summer in 2023 means that United have little leeway when it comes to Financial Fair Play restrictions.
Ten Hag’s third window of his tenure concluded with five permanent signings and two loanees, totalling an eye-watering £183.5 million spend. Therefore, you presumably won’t be surprised to hear that the board have no plans to splash the cash next month.
Ten Hag on January signings
The Dutchman was asked about any potential arrivals by Andy Mitten in a recent interview with fanzine United We Stand. He explained: “I don’t think so. And if so the approach from United should be that if you can improve your team then you should do.
“What we expect from every player coming to Carrington every day is for them to give their maximum, to give their best. As a club, you have to look for improvements, so if you can find better and it’s realistic financially and with FFP [financial fair play] I think the club has to go with it. But realistically, in relation to the market, most of the time you don’t attract the best players in the winter.
“The top, top players will not leave their clubs in the winter. It’s players who are disappointed or injured or not the right fit.”
