After a difficult start to the 2024-2025 season, the January transfer window will certainly be an opportunity for Manchester United to revamp their squad.
Coach Ruben Amorim came in at the wrong time of the season when the schedule was tight. He didn't have much time on the training pitch and the squad wasn't good enough to support the tactical system.
Since sacking Erik ten Hag, the Red Devils have failed to improve their fortunes. They are 14th in the Premier League ahead of their game against Newcastle, despite spending heavily on transfers. So it would be no surprise if United continue to bring in new players in January.
So, what will be the scenario for a perfect 2025 winter transfer market for Man United?
Marcus Rashford leaves
Manchester United are open to a transfer and Marcus Rashford wants to leave. The England striker's departure may be a sad but necessary moment at this time.
Man United's transfer budget will increase significantly if they find a buyer for the 27-year-old player. With Amorim, he also no longer has to answer questions about Rashford's future after every match.
A new striker
Scoring goals has not been easy for Man United of late. The club currently have a negative goal difference in the Premier League and have scored just 21 goals in 18 games. A third of those goals have come in just two games.
Despite his potential, Rasmus Hojlund has yet to fully shoulder the responsibility of scoring goals. And the "Red Devils" need a new striker to fix that.
Viktor Gyokeres, a former player of Amorim's at Sporting, is one of United's top targets. The Swede won't come cheap but is familiar with Amorim's tactics. The problem is the timing, with January seemingly too early for Sporting to agree.
A new left back
With Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia having ongoing injury problems, a new left-back is a top priority at Old Trafford, and another former Amorim player has been strongly linked with United.
PSG star Nuno Mendes, who played under Amorim at Sporting, would bring more balance to United's defence and address a position that has long been a problem area. The Portuguese defender's future in the capital is also unclear.
Perfect scenario really?
While selling players before buying is never an ideal situation, it is imperative for Man United, who need to trim their squad to allow new players time to adapt to the Premier League.
Amorim has left a host of names out of his squad, including Rashford, Malacia, Joshua Zirkzee, Antony, Jonny Evans and Christian Eriksen. In a perfect transfer window, the Red Devils need to help Amorim free up players he won't be using.
