Manchester United’s dream line-up after the January transfer window

Manchester United could be tempted to use the January transfer window to alter their starting 11 with several signings being linked with the club.

This will be interim manager Ralf Rangnick’s first transfer window as United boss, with the German looking to stamp his own mark on how his team should play.

The German has implemented his favoured 4-2-2-2 formation in games as well as brought in three members of backroom staff, all of whom he has worked with in the past.

Attention now turns to next month with clubs across the globe able to buy, sell and loan players until their specific transfer deadline.

The 63-year-old will have until 11pm on 31 January to finalise new signings, with hope that come February, he will be happy with his squad and push for a top four Premier League finish.

As expected with every transfer window the Red Devils have been linked with plenty of names, including several players who have worked with Rangnick in the past.

With that being said, let’s take a look at United’s dream XI once the January transfer window comes to a close.

Goalkeeper | David De Gea

There’s no disputing how good David De Gea has been for the club this season with the Spaniard making some crucial saves in all competitions.

This, along with second-choice goalkeeper Dean Henderson rumoured to be leaving Old Trafford on loan next month, is the reason why De Gea will keep his place between the sticks.

Right-back | Aaron Wan-Bissaka

Aaron Wan-Bissaka hasn’t been at his best this campaign, but will be looking to use his return from injury as a way to impress Rangnick and remain first choice right-back.

Diogo Dalot has filled in brilliantly in Wan-Bissaka’s absence, but the latter has shown in the past why he was regarded one of England’s most promising full-backs.

Centre-back | Raphael Varane

Another member of the squad hampered with injury this season, Raphael Varane will be looking to make his way back into the starting XI once fit.

This shouldn’t be a problem for the French international with him arguably one of the world’s best defenders when playing regularly.

Centre-back | Harry Maguire

Harry Maguire has been hit-and-miss for the club since his arrival from Leicester City in 2019.

The Red Devils’ captain has faced criticism for his performances this season, but under Rangnick’s new leadership, will be hoping the team’s lack of defensive organisation will be quashed.

Left-back | Luke Shaw

A player that can continue to be an important figure in the starting XI is Luke Shaw. The 26-year-old when fully fit is arguably England’s best left-back and his playing style allows him to be involved in both defensive and offensive phases of a game.

Centre-midfield | Amadou Haidara

Amadou Haidara has been linked with a move to United since the arrival of Rangnick in November. The 23-year-old is no stranger to the Red Devils’ boss having worked with the him at RB Leipzig

Haidara, a holding or centre-midfielder, is exactly what the club needs in order to strengthen their options in the middle of the park.

With Paul Pogba, Jesse Lingard and Juan Mata’s contracts all expiring at the end of the season, as well as Nemanja Matic now 33, a move for Haidara would only be a positive thing.

Centre-midfield | Fred

Another player who has been on the receiving end of much criticism since joining the club is Fred.

However, the Brazilian is looking to change those views with some solid performances under Rangnick so far.

Fred scored the winning goal against Crystal Palace in the United Boss’ first game in charge and has since shown his hunger on the pitch through his pressing and determination to fight for the badge.

Attacking-midfield | Bruno Fernandes

Bruno Fernandes might not be hitting the performance levels that he did last season, but there’s no denying how vital he is to any success the club wants to achieve in the future.

His ability on and off the ball, as well as his goal-scoring and assists record while at Old Trafford is exactly why he is in this starting XI.

Attacking-midfield | Jadon Sancho

It took a bit of time for Jadon Sancho to fully get going at United, but the last few months have been promising for the Red Devils No.25.

Sancho will be looking to continue his performances under Ranginick in the number 10 role and add to his two goals this campaign.

Centre-forward | Cristiano Ronaldo

Does Cristiano Ronaldo’s names in this starting XI even need explaining? The all-time leading goalscorer in football is the only United player to hit double figures so far this season.

Centre-forward | Mason Greenwood

Mason Greenwood is one of the club’s and England’s most exciting talents, despite only having one cap to his name.

The 20-year-old finishes that starting 11 based on his technical ability and the fact he is the Red Devils’ third-highest goalscorer this season with five goals.

You might be surprised to see only one new addition in this list, however, this isn’t to say Rangnick won’t sign other players in January.

Timo Werner, Erling Haaland, Declan Rice and Boubacar Kamara as well as many other stars continue to be linked to United, with the latter’s arrival also looking likely.

• Let us know who you’d put in your first choice XI - tweet us @MancWorldUK.