Man Utd forced to turn to ‘low-cost alternatives’ after ‘abandoning’ top January targets

Manchester United had a busy summer transfer window and have remained linked to a number of high-profile players as January fast approaches. The battle in the Premier League is heating up and clubs are expected to return to the market and strengthen where needed once 2024 arrives.

However, Erik ten Hag and his side are now having to rethink their new year approach, as it’s unlikely they will be able move for the high-profile players originally on their shopping list.

Two main names on the radar were central defenders Gonçalo Inácio of Sporting CP, and Nice’s Jean-Clair Todibo, but according to Football Insider, United have been forced to ‘abandon’ the ‘huge-money deals’ before the transfer window even opens. The Reds are reportedly struggling with ‘limited resources’ and cannot justify splashing large amounts of cash on winter signings.

United were unable to bring a new centre-back to the club during the summer, so that became a priority for the new year. However, now the club are having to consider ‘low-cost alternatives’ to Inácio, Todibo, and Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace, who was also on their radar.

The Red Devils enjoyed a fruitful summer, bringing in the likes of Mason Mount, André Onana, and Rasmus Højlund, but January is now set to be much quieter. One of the more budget-friendly targets who has emerged is Uruguay international Sebastián Cáceres, who plays in Mexico for Club America. The 24-year-old is contracted until December 2024 and the report claims his club ‘are not expected to demand an eye-watering fee to part with him.’

Transfermarkt currently value Cáceres at €3.5 million (£3m), which will definitely be a manageable sum for United, particularly if they are able to relieve some of the pressure by cashing in on players who Ten Hag has placed on the departure list.