Man Utd defender 'in advanced talks' over loan exit as Red Devils' transfer window accelerates

Rhys Bennett looks set to be the latest Manchester United loan exit with reports suggesting he is in 'advanced talks' to join Stockport County.

Bennett has been in and around the first-team picture during training sessions at Carrington but is yet to make a senior appearance for the club. The 20-year-old was in the matchday squad for the FA Cup third round win over Wigan Athletic but opportunities for senior football have been non-existent.

Football Insider reports that he is set to find that football elsewhere with talks over a loan move to Stockport progressing. A number of EFL clubs are said to have expressed their interest but the League Two leaders top the list.

Bennett joined United at under-10 level and has captained his side at various age levels, including to FA Youth Cup success in 2022. He has been in four matchday squads for the first-team but Erik ten Hag's decision to pick Willy Kambwala above him against West Ham in December suggested he was down the pecking order.

United have five senior central defenders and will hope to have all available in the coming weeks. Lisandro Martinez returned from a four-month absence against Tottenham last weekend and Harry Maguire is expected to follow soon. Victor Lindelof underwent surgery on a groin issue and will likely return next month.

All of United's transfer business this month has been outgoing, with Ten Hag keen to trim the fat from his squad following elimination from the Carabao Cup and Champions League. The Reds have just three games to play in January and their schedule between now and May will be significantly reduced.

Jadon Sancho and Donny van de Beek have both gone to Germany, joining Borussia Dortmund and Eintracht Frankfurt on loan respectively. Hannibal Mejbri has joined Sevilla and Alvaro Fernandez has gone to Benfica - both are on loan with obligations or options to buy. Mateo Mejia also left for Sevilla on a free transfer while Sergio Reguilon's loan spell was cut short.