Manchester United are preparing for a pivotal January transfer window as manager Ruben Amorim looks to build on the team's recent resurgence, with a major move for a German international defender now in the works.
United Enter Race for Frankfurt's Prized Defender
The Red Devils have joined the chase for Eintracht Frankfurt left-back Nathaniel Brown, according to reports. The 22-year-old Germany international, valued at around £50 million, has also attracted serious interest from Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Brown, who earned his first senior cap for Germany in October, is renowned for his attacking prowess and crossing ability. His performances have made him a likely candidate for Julian Nagelsmann's World Cup squad next summer. Amorim's desire for specialist wing-backs to fit his preferred 3-4-3 formation has made Brown a key target, with questions lingering over the long-term roles of Patrick Dorgu and Diogo Dalot.
Goalkeeper Chapter Closed as Academy Star Seeks Exit
In significant outgoings news, the club has decided that Andre Onana's time at Old Trafford is effectively over. The £47.2 million signing from Inter Milan, currently on loan at Trabzonspor, will be moved on permanently upon his return in June. His chapter at the club is considered 'closed'.
This decision has been facilitated by the impressive form of summer signing Senne Lammens. The Belgian goalkeeper's impact has been so notable that he has drawn praise from club legends, including Sir Alex Ferguson, who recently highlighted the new goalkeeper's 'outstanding' start.
Meanwhile, academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo is pushing for a January loan move after failing to start a single Premier League game this season. The 20-year-old midfielder, desperate for game time to bolster his hopes of an England World Cup call-up, is reportedly a target for Serie A champions Napoli, where he could reunite with former United players.
Midfield Reinforcements Remain a Priority
Despite the focus on defence, strengthening central midfield remains a key objective for Amorim. United's shortlist is understood to include Brighton's Carlos Baleba, Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton, Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson, and Atletico Madrid's Conor Gallagher.
Conor Gallagher has emerged as a potentially cost-effective option. Reports from Spain suggest Atletico Madrid would be open to a sale for around €30 million (£26 million) this winter. The former Chelsea midfielder has found starts limited under Diego Simeone, and his situation is being monitored closely at Old Trafford.
United's improved form—just one defeat in their last seven games—has lifted them to seventh in the table, within three points of the Champions League places. This progress has provided a more stable platform for Amorim's planned squad evolution in the upcoming transfer window.
