Manchester United transfer plans remain under close scrutiny as the January window approaches its final weeks, with reports suggesting activity could still pick up before the deadline.
Although Manchester United have yet to complete a signing this month, they retain the option to do business until February 2 if opportunities arise.
The current focus at Old Trafford extends beyond recruitment, following the departure of Ruben Amorim.
The Portuguese coach left the club last Monday after Manchester United were held to a draw by Leeds United in the Premier League.
Since then, the club has been assessing both its short-term direction and longer-term Manchester United transfer plans.
In the immediate aftermath of Amorim’s exit, Darren Fletcher has stepped into the role on an interim basis.
Fletcher has overseen two matches so far, starting with a Premier League draw against Burnley and followed by a defeat to Brighton in the FA Cup third round.
Those results have come during a period of uncertainty, with no clarity yet offered on when a permanent managerial appointment might be made.
With three weeks remaining in the January window, Manchester United transfer plans are still being kept under wraps.
There has been no official indication of whether the club intends to strengthen the squad this month or wait until the summer. However, speculation continues to grow around possible targets, as reported by The Mirror, with several names linked to United over the past few days.
Below is a closer look at the latest Manchester United transfer plans and rumours that have surfaced within the last 24 hours.
Manchester United transfer plans and midfield priorities
One area consistently linked with future recruitment is midfield. According to Fabrizio Romano, speaking on the Market Madness podcast, Manchester United are expected to be active in the midfield market this year, although not necessarily during the current window.
Romano suggested that United are likely to focus their main efforts on the summer transfer window, when larger deals are typically easier to complete.
Within that context, Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson has emerged as a player of interest. Romano stated that Manchester United are understood to be “serious contenders” to sign Anderson at the end of the season.
The 21-year-old is not the only midfielder under consideration. Romano also named Brighton’s Carlos Baleba as another player on United’s radar.
While no moves are anticipated this month for either player, their inclusion highlights how Manchester United transfer plans are already being shaped with a longer-term view in mind.
At this stage, there is no indication that United have opened formal talks for Anderson or Baleba, and any potential approach would come later in the year.
Nevertheless, the reports underline the club’s intention to address midfield options as part of their broader Manchester United transfer plans.
Youth recruitment part of Manchester United transfer plans
Alongside senior targets, Manchester United transfer plans are also said to include a focus on young talent. One such name linked with the club is Blackburn Rovers prospect Igor Tyjon.
According to reports from The Sun, United are among several clubs monitoring the 17-year-old, whose scholarship deal at Ewood Park is due to expire this summer.
Tyjon has attracted attention for his performances at youth level, and United are believed to be assessing whether to make a move once his current agreement concludes.
However, Manchester United would not be alone in pursuing the youngster. Arsenal are also reported to be interested and are described as the most likely destination should Tyjon decide to leave Blackburn.
That potential competition could complicate United’s chances, even if they choose to formalise their interest.
It has also been reported that Blackburn have previously rejected offers of £1million for Tyjon. If he were to join another English club when his deal expires, Rovers would be entitled to compensation under the relevant development rules.
This factor would need to be considered as part of Manchester United transfer plans should they pursue the teenager.
January uncertainty remains at Old Trafford
Despite the various links, there is still no clear indication that Manchester United transfer plans will result in immediate activity before the deadline.
The club’s lack of signings so far this month suggests a cautious approach, particularly given the ongoing search for a permanent replacement for Amorim.
The uncertainty surrounding the managerial position adds another layer of complexity.
With Darren Fletcher currently in interim charge, any incoming player would need to fit both the short-term setup and the club’s longer-term vision once a new head coach is appointed.
For now, Manchester United transfer plans appear to be focused on monitoring the market rather than making quick decisions. While the club could still act if the right opportunity presents itself, the emphasis seems to be on preparing for more substantial business in the summer.
As the January window edges closer to its conclusion, attention will remain on Old Trafford to see whether Manchester United transfer plans translate into late movement or whether patience prevails until the end of the season.
