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News
- 9 hours ago
Five early January transfer targets to save Man Utd's season
Suraj Radia
- Updated: 3 Oct 2025 00:14 BST
- 6 min read
Analysis
Manchester United have started the new season off just how they finished the last one – in disarray and producing inadequate, uninspiring performances, leading to a call for wholesale changes.
Ruben Amorim’s side spent more than €250 million on players in the summer but they have yet to see a significant difference in quality or results, leading to immense pressure on the manager and questions over his system or perhaps even his future.
United are reluctant to change manager again so soon after Amorim’s arrival, particularly after backing him strongly in the transfer market, and they are desperate for him to prove his worth by turning the club’s fortunes around.
But it may require even more investment in January, with a focus on cost-effective, ready-made solutions to the glaring problems in Amorim’s team and FootballTransfers takes a look at five sensible options for United who could rescue the club’s season.
Jean-Philippe Mateta (Crystal Palace)
While it is far too early to make a fair judgement on him, United appear to have learned nothing with the signing of Benjamin Sesko, having pushed Rasmus Hojlund out for being too inexperienced and raw to display his true potential in the Premier League.
United were expected to target a proven forward to relieve the pressure on Hojlund and, even with the arrival of goalscorers in Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, Sesko appears to be a long way away from being the striker that Amorim needs, suggesting the club need to address their mistake by signing the profile of number nine they opted against pursuing in the summer.
Although United’s options mid-season will be limited, one player could fit the bill for Amorim, with Jean-Philippe Mateta likely open to leaving Crystal Palace for his last chance at securing a lucrative contract at a big club, particularly with the Frenchman hoping to feature in next summer's World Cup.
Even with their high-flying start, Palace may be willing to cash in on Mateta as he enters the last 18 months of his contract, while United would be getting an affordable option who has become a consistent Premier League scorer during his time in South London.
John McGinn (Aston Villa)
It is perhaps baffling that United spent the money they did during the summer yet failed to address arguably their biggest issue in the middle of the park, with Amorim’s side losing the bulk of their battles in midfield due to the imbalance of their options.
Bruno Fernandes has gone from United’s most important player to almost a liability as a deeper midfielder required to run and defend, while Casemiro’s legs are non-existent and Kobbie Mainoo has yet to convince Amorim of his credentials along with Manuel Ugarte and Mason Mount.
While Bruno’s suitability to his role is its own issue, it is unlikely that Amorim will look to drop his captain, meaning United need someone who can allow the playmaker to thrive by looking after his defensive responsibilities while also being able to pass and run endlessly.
Current ETV
John McGinn
M (CRL)
Aston Villa
John McGinn
M (CRL)
Aston Villa
ETV Range
€13.4M - €16.4M
Although there will be question marks over the physicality of a 31-year-old, John McGinn’s quality and mentality in midfield has never been in doubt at Aston Villa and the Scotsman could provide some much-needed stability at the heart of United’s side, at least in the short-term.
James Garner (Everton)
Should McGinn be deemed too old or unrealistic for United, they could turn to a familiar face in James Garner, who has established himself as a reliable Premier League midfielder since leaving Old Trafford for Everton in 2022.
Current ETV
James Garner
DM, M (C)
Everton
James Garner
DM, M (C)
Everton
ETV Range
€18.7M - €22.8M
The 24-year-old came through United’s academy but made just two league appearances before being sold for €10m but he may be available for a cut-price fee due to his contract expiring next summer.
While perhaps an underwhelming name and profile of player, Garner’s composure and defensive acumen could make him a cost-effective stop-gap replacement for Casemiro to help balance United’s midfield until they sign a more technical alternative.
Leandro Trossard (Arsenal)
Arsenal and Manchester United have a long history of rivalry but they have also not been afraid to do business with each other over the years and Leandro Trossard could represent the latest player to cross the divide.
The 30-year-old has found his minutes decreased this season with the arrivals of Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke, although the latter’s recent injury has allowed Trossard an extended run in the team as he continues to be a valuable squad player to the title challengers.
However, with his latest contract only keeping him tied to the club until 2027, Trossard could be convinced to leave Arsenal for a longer contract at United where he can continue to play Premier League football and give Amorim an experienced and reliable option out wide, as he has done consistently for the Gunners.
Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa)
Ezri Konsa’s position as arguably Aston Villa’s most important defender would make him a difficult signing to pull off but the England international’s athleticism, experience and intelligence would make him the ideal defensive signing for United.
Current ETV
Ezri Konsa
D (C)
Aston Villa
Ezri Konsa
D (C)
Aston Villa
ETV Range
€39.8M - €48.6M
Konsa has been a consistent performer for Villa and would provide a good compliment to Amorim’s backline as a versatile defender in his prime.
It would perhaps be a more feasible target in the summer but, with Villa constantly dealing with PSR struggles, they may be open to Konsa’s sale for the right price, while the player may see a move to United as a way to further boost his reputation and get an opportunity to showcase his talent at a huge club.
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