According to the Manchester Evening News, Manchester United may be gearing up to pursue three crucial transfer targets during the January window to bolster manager Ruben Amorim’s tactical vision.
Amorim, who has implemented a 3-4-3 formation as the foundation of his strategy, faces challenges with a squad that lacks the depth and specialized personnel to fully realize his system. Injuries to key players such as Luke Shaw and Mason Mount have further highlighted the need for reinforcements.
However, the club’s financial constraints and a “sell-to-buy” policy under Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s cost-cutting measures mean United must act strategically in the market.
Angel Gomes: A Familiar Face Returns?
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One potential target is Angel Gomes, a player well-known to United fans. The academy graduate left Old Trafford in 2020 after failing to agree on a new contract. Since then, Gomes has developed into a dependable and versatile midfielder at Lille.
Now 24 years old, Gomes’ contract expires at the end of the season, allowing him to negotiate with overseas clubs in January. His ability to play as a box-to-box midfielder or a No. 8 could address United’s struggles in midfield. A move for Gomes would be a low-cost, high-upside addition that aligns with Amorim’s needs for creativity and energy.
Alphonso Davies: The Dream Wing-Back
The left wing-back position is critical in Amorim’s 3-4-3 system, and Alphonso Davies stands out as an ideal candidate. Known for his speed, athleticism, and two-way contributions, the Canadian international could address United’s issues on the left flank, where Luke Shaw’s injury history and Tyrell Malacia’s limitations have left gaps.
However, prying Davies away from Bayern Munich will be no small feat. Bayern are eager to keep him, and Real Madrid’s interest presents significant competition. Additionally, United’s current struggles to reestablish themselves as an elite club could make convincing Davies even harder.
Jonathan David: A Solution for the Scoring Struggles
Another Canadian, Jonathan David, has emerged as a strong candidate to solve United’s goal-scoring issues. The 24-year-old striker has been prolific for Lille, netting 17 goals and providing five assists in 26 matches this season. With a total of 101 goals in 209 appearances for the French club, David’s reliability in front of goal is proven.
David’s contract situation also works in United’s favor, as it is set to expire in the summer. While Lille may attempt to secure an extension, United could capitalize on his availability and make an aggressive push to land the forward.
Strategic Challenges Ahead
While these targets address key needs in Amorim’s system, financial constraints and competition from other top clubs make the pursuit complex. United will need to navigate these challenges carefully to strengthen the squad and keep pace with Amorim’s ambitions.