Manchester United are poised to refrain from making permanent signings in the January transfer window for the sixth consecutive year, as the club’s new football structure aims to maintain financial prudence.
The Red Devils have not made a permanent mid-season signing since acquiring Bruno Fernandes in January 2020. Fernandes has proven to be an outstanding value for money, with his £47m transfer fee yielding impressive returns.
Under Erik ten Hag, United have focused on summer transfers, with loan deals in the winter window being the exception. The club’s financial struggles, having posted losses of over £370m in five successive years, necessitate caution.
With 17 games scheduled before the January window opens, United’s on-field performance will dictate their transfer strategy. Currently 14th in the Premier League, Ten Hag’s side must improve significantly to revive their Champions League qualification hopes.
Failure to do so may lead to managerial changes, potentially prompting sporting director Dan Ashworth and technical director Jason Wilcox to reconsider their transfer approach. However, this would likely require sales to balance the books.
Harry Maguire, Casemiro, and Antony are potential candidates for departure, although finding suitable buyers may prove challenging.
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