In a strategic decision, Manchester United have reportedly shut the door on any potential departures of their attacking players during the January transfer window. Despite recent additions that have bolstered their forward line, the Red Devils are believed to be set on blocking any exit requests this winter.
Following a strong summer transfer window, United invested approximately £170 million to enhance their attacking options, with the acquisitions of Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbeumo. These signings have seemingly paid dividends, as United have already racked up an impressive 19 goals this Premier League campaign, trailing only the top three in goal-scoring.
However, this influx of talent has limited opportunities for Dutch forward Joshua Zirkzee, who found the net only seven times over his initial 40 appearances for the club. This season, his playtime has dwindled to a mere 90 minutes across five appearances in all competitions. Nevertheless, reports from The Sun suggest there’s ‘no chance’ he’ll be granted a move in January, as United are adamant about retaining their squad depth with several key players set to depart for the Africa Cup of Nations.
With Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, and Noussair Mazraoui heading off to represent their nations, alongside Sesko’s recent injury against Tottenham – not considered serious, mind – Zirkzee might find himself thrust back into action. The club sees the value in maintaining depth to avoid any potential attacking crisis and avoid being short-staffed up front.
A tangential matter has also arisen, with tension brewing between United and the Slovenian national team following Sesko’s injury. Slovenian manager Matjaz Kek voiced concerns over the club’s communication, noting that official documentation regarding Sesko’s injury was slow to arrive, causing some friction.
In another strand of United-related news, the club is reportedly ready to offer Casemiro a contract extension, while also eyeing an England international for a January swoop. Meanwhile, pundit Roy Keane has suggested that one of United’s men should be considered for an England starting spot over a Newcastle star.
As the January window approaches, all eyes will be on how United manage their roster in order to maintain momentum in their pursuit of domestic and European success.