4 players Man Utd could sign on loan this January, including 19 and 17-goal superstars

How will Erik ten Hag bolster his squad ahead of the second half of the season?

Erik ten Hag has not ruled out the idea of turning to loan signings this window as he assesses the gaps in his squad. Manchester United were without 13 senior players during their FA Cup over Wigan this week and they are currently considering their potential transfer options as they focus on improving their 2023/24 season.

With the January transfer window now in full swing, we've taken a look at some of the recent links to United and highlighted some players they could consider signing on loan for the remainder of the campaign.

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Serhou Guirassy

United have been linked to a number of new attacking options to try and boost their numbers in front of goal this season. The Reds are way behind the top half pack in terms of goals scored, with just 22 on the board so far this season. Even relegation battlers Luton Town and Everton have found the back of the net more times than ten Hag's side.

There are a few names on the radar and one of them is VfB Stuttgart's Serhou Guirassy, who has 19 goals and two assists across all competitions so far this season. Naturally, his impressive form has attracted a lot of attention and United have been linked to him this window. Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth recently described Guirassy as a 'low risk' target, who has a €17 million (£15m) release clause (via GiveMeSport).

While the release clause is a rather friendly amount, the Reds could benefit from a brief loan spell to see whether the 27-year-old would fit in at Old Trafford before they make any further decisions. Stuttgart sporting director Fabian Wohlgemuth has also not ruled out the possibility of a January exit for Guirassy, which could be a window of opportunity for United.

Mauro Icardi

Another striker who has been on the radar is Mauro Icardi of Galatasaray, who has made a splash in his debut season with the Süper Lig outfit. The Argentinian's 17 goals and six assists this term have caught United's attention and Football Transfers reported last month that the Reds are interested in signing him on loan.

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Icardi is already looking for a new challenge and transforming United's attack could be a task to consider. In 2022, the player reportedly 'expressed interest' in moving to Old Trafford and while the Reds' winter spending is not expected to be high, that's where the benefit of a loan deal comes in. Signing players like Guirassy, 27, and Icardi, 30 — who are experienced and still firing in goals — could be beneficial to Rasmus Højlund, who has scored just one Premier League goal this season.

Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting 

Former Stoke City forward Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting is now into the final six months of his contract with Bayern Munich. United have been linked with a move for the 34-year-old and in return, he is also keen on the idea.

While he doesn't fit the picture of an up and coming young talent, the Reds could benefit from bringing in an experienced player who knows his role. They did exactly that with Jonny Evans and he has stepped up when relied on this season.

In the absence of goals coming from a natural No.9, Choupo-Moting could help lead United's young attack and help boost Højlund's confidence. A loan move could also be beneficial, as the striker may not be a player United want for the long-term, so a short deal could work out well for both parties.

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Kalvin Phillips

A rogue one but certainly not one to ignore as the player continues his search for a challenge away from neighbours and rivals Manchester City. A number of Premier League clubs have been interested in Phillips, and United have even had their name thrown into the mix too.

Ten Hag's midfield has also struggled this season, whether it be through injury and absence or general lack of service to the attack. There have been talks of some players leaving the club, which will open up a position for a new addition like Phillips who is looking to prove himself after struggling for game time with City.

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