Man Utd plan 'stunning last-gasp signing' as £13m Bundesliga defender eyed

Manchester United have less than two weeks to conclude any transfer business and finalise their squad for the second-half of the season. Erik ten Hag's side endured a dismal end to 2023 but a new year brings fresh opportunity and the imminent investment of Sir Jim Ratcliffe is hoped to signal better days.

United have all the more time to assess their squad during an unusually quiet January, with just three games all month to contend with. Focus is therefore on transfer business and ManchesterWorld has rounded up some of the latest headlines from Old Trafford.

January surprise

There is an expectation that the next fortnight will be quiet but some reports are suggesting a sensational 'last-gasp' move is still on the cards. Football Insider suggests that while loan moves are likely, the club remain active and could land a marquee arrival if the opportunity presents itself.

ManchesterWorld understands that any business concluded this month will almost certainly be on loan, with funds tight amid FFP concerns and a vast expenditure in the summer. Erik ten Hag had admitted he would be open to temporary arrivals this month but is also ready to work with what he has got already.

“So you always have to consider such choices. They are, again, two very good loans; (Marcel) Sabitzer and Wout Weghorst really contributed to our success last year," he said. “When such opportunities come up, we have to take them. At the same time, you have to analyse what we have on board, what is coming up."

Itakura interest

United will be in the market for defensive reinforcements in the summer and have reportedly added Borussia Monchengladbach's Ko Itakura to their shortlist. FootballTransfers reports that the Japanese international is emerging as a 'prime target' ahead of next season.

It is likely that Itakura would come in alongside a more marquee arrival, but with strict budgetary constraints, United could do with bulking out their squad with lower-cost options. The 26-year-old is said to have a release clause of just £13m, which becomes active in the summer.

The Reds could face competition from Premier League rivals Tottenham and Liverpool for any deal. Itakura is said to have impressed United's scouting team during a recent Asia Cup performance in which he made 101 accurate passes for Japan vs Vietnam.