Fabrizio Romano: Manchester United 'appreciate' midfielder but another 'opportunity' more likely in January
The latest Man Utd transfer news as they look to strengthen their midfield options next year.
Manchester United are keeping their options open as they consider a midfield signing in the January transfer window.
Ruben Amorim has made the position his priority next year, with at least two new additions expected, one of which will be a marquee signing. United accept they are most likely to do business at the end of the season but will not rule out a deal in the winter window if the conditions are right.
United only have four senior central midfielders and had to promote teenager Jack Fletcher to the bench against Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend after injury to Kobbie Mainoo. Mainoo could look to leave next year amid a lack of playing time, while Casemiro is expected to depart when his contract expires in the summer. There is plenty of transfer interest in Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte has struggled ever since he joined last year.
Romano issues Manchester United midfield transfer update
Manchester United did not view midfield as a priority this year but still made some attempts to reinforce there during the summer transfer window. United made enquiries over a possible deal to sign Carlos Baleba but walked away when Brighton reiterated they would only sell him for a club-record fee in the region of £115 million.
United also considered a loan move for Atletico Madrid ace Conor Gallagher, but the La Liga side said they would only entertain a permanent sale. It left United light on options by the end of the window, and they are still only one injury or suspension away from having to use academy players to boost their numbers.
Ruben Amorim is open to a midfield signing in the January transfer window, as long as the player represents long-term value to the club, and Fabrizio Romano has named two players who could be options next year.
Speaking on the Market Madness podcast, the notorious transfer reporter issued an update on United's plans. "Conor Gallagher could be an opportunity, but Atletico Madrid didn't want to let him go in August. So let's see what happens in the January window.
"Angelo Stiller is also a player they appreciate from Stuttgart, but I don't see a German club selling one of the stars in the January window at all. So January is not going to be easy. It's going to be about opportunities in the summer could be different. And for sure, Manchester United in 2026 will add again, at least one midfielder."
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