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Manchester United is reportedly planning to bolster their squad with four new signings in the upcoming January transfer window.
This decision comes amid growing concerns over Sofyan Amrabat’s performance since his arrival at Old Trafford.
Amrabat, the Moroccan international, moved to Manchester United on the last day of the summer transfer window.
He came on a loan from Fiorentina, with an option for United to make the move permanent next summer. However, the 27-year-old’s tenure at United has been less than impressive.
According to the Guardian, there are internal doubts at the club regarding his effectiveness on the field.
Despite starting only seven matches across all competitions, some of which were as an emergency left-back, Amrabat has not lived up to expectations.
His recent relegation to the bench, even during Casemiro’s injury absence, highlights the club’s concerns. This was evident when 18-year-old Kobbie Mainoo was chosen over him for the recent game against Everton.
As per a recent report published by The Guardian, the club is now reportedly contemplating the acquisition of a new defensive midfielder in January. Additionally, Manchester United is looking to strengthen other areas, including a right-sided center-back, a no8 midfielder, and a striker.
However, these plans could be impacted by financial fair play regulations, especially with the potential partial acquisition of the club by Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
The defense is another area of concern for United. They have been contemplating additional options since summer, and this need has become more pressing, casting doubt over Raphael Varane’s future at the club.
Varane, a World Cup winner, has started only one of the last nine matches for United, amidst speculation of a strained relationship with manager Erik ten Hag and interest from Bayern Munich.
In midfield, the club’s pursuit of a no8 is somewhat unexpected, considering the summer acquisition of Mason Mount from Chelsea.
Despite his potential, Mount has struggled to find his form in Manchester, still awaiting his first goal for the club and dealing with injuries.
Upfront, United seeks to reduce the load on their £72 million signing, Rasmus Hojlund. While Hojlund has been successful in the Champions League, his Premier League performance has yet to take off.
United’s scoring has been underwhelming, with only 13 goals in 16 league matches. This includes Marcus Rashford, who, despite a 30-goal season last year, is currently struggling to find form.
The club’s January plans could be influenced by departures, with Casemiro and Varane linked to moves to Saudi Arabia after less-than-ideal seasons.
Harry Maguire and Scott McTominay, who considered leaving in the summer, are now back in the manager’s plans.
