Manchester United need new reinforcements but have a lack of funds for transfers with several players on their shortlist, including Napoli loanee Victor Osimhen
Manchester United are heading into January with very limited funds but that hasn’t stopped them keeping tabs on three players – Victor Osimhen chief among them.
The Red Devils lost five Premier League games in December and remain in the bottom half. Their squad, despite having more money pumped into it in the summer, is in major need of reinforcements but Ruben Amorim is unlikely to get much to spend in the New Year.
United though have continued to track certain individuals, even if they are unlikely to move for any of them. Osimhen is a man who’s long been linked with a move to the Premier League and his days at Napoli look to be over following some personnel changes in the summer.
He’s currently on loan at Galatasaray and continues to produce in the final third, but Turkey is unlikely to be his long-term home. There is a clause in the deal allowing the Italian side to recall Osimhen in the New Year and sell him if the right offer comes in, but United sources believe it is unlikely they could land someone of his profile and salary at present.
The Red Devils squad could do with some more goals and Osimhen is more than capable of leading the line on his own – something that has looked a tall order for Rasmus Hojlund at times.
The Daily Mail understands that PSG full-back Nuno Mendes is another man they’re keeping tabs on. Mendes previously played at Sporting Lisbon under Amorim and his pace and energy down the flank is likely to suit the wing-back position. Currently United have a lack of players who look comfortable in that role.
The French club want to extend his contract but may be willing to sell the 22-year-old if he is reluctant to re-sign at the Parc des Princes. A cut-price deal is likely to suit the Manchester outfit, but that still requires several parts to fall into place.
United’s goalkeeping situation could also change with their No 2 Altay Bayindir considering his options as he eyes regular minutes. Currently he’s behind Andre Onana and, should he need replacing, the club are understood to have kept eyes on Royal Antwerp’s Senne Lammens.
Amorim would ideally like to see at least one new face arrive in January, especially with the team in desperate need of fresh energy. His new system also requires specific players and several positions are short.
Despite that the Portuguese coach made it clear when he arrived that he knew the situation and was ready to work with the current squad, not go out demanding money be spent on new recruits.
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