With Michael Carrick now installed as head coach until the season's end, Manchester United's focus has sharpened on the January transfer window, with midfield reinforcements a top priority. The latest name in the frame is Atlético Madrid's versatile Spanish international, Marcos Llorente.
Midfield Hunt in Full Swing at Old Trafford
Carrick, a former midfield maestro himself, is said to have identified the centre of the park as an area requiring urgent attention. While Al-Hilal's Rúben Neves remains on the radar, a concrete target has emerged in the form of 30-year-old Marcos Llorente. Reports suggest United could launch a bid in the region of £30 million for the Atlético player, a valuation that gives sporting director Jason Wilcox and his team a clear figure to consider.
Defensive reinforcements are also being explored, though any move for Sassuolo centre-back Tarik Muharemovic would see United battling for his signature against Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United.
Movement Across Europe: Malen, Silva & Werner
The rumour mill is spinning far beyond Manchester. In the Midlands, Donyell Malen's stint at Aston Villa has failed to ignite since his move from Borussia Dortmund a year ago. Roma are poised to offer the Dutch forward an escape, proposing an initial loan with an option to buy for £28.5 million next summer.
In Manchester, a sentimental story is brewing across the city. When Bernardo Silva's contract at Manchester City expires this summer, an emotional return to Benfica appears the most probable outcome. The Portuguese playmaker has previously hinted he knows his next move, making late offers unlikely to sway him—though the allure of Como in Italy's scenic Lake District is noted as a potential, if outside, contender.
Meanwhile, former Chelsea and Tottenham striker Timo Werner is in talks with MLS side San Jose Earthquakes, viewing the United States as an ideal next step after falling out of favour at RB Leipzig.
Championship and Lower League Moves
The transfer buzz extends to the EFL. Brentford are seeking wingers and have made a £13 million bid for Lazio's Italian international Matteo Cancellieri.
Manchester United youngster Jack Moorhouse, currently on loan at Leyton Orient, is attracting interest from Sheffield Wednesday in the Championship and Bolton Wanderers in League One. A premature recall from his loan is a possibility. Another United prospect, Harry Amass, has just been recalled from a successful spell at Sheffield Wednesday, with Stoke City and Watford now competing to take him on loan.
Finally, new West Bromwich Albion boss Eric Ramsey is hoping to bring a piece of his MLS past with him, targeting a move for midfielder Nectarios Triantis from Minnesota United, though a deal is described as difficult.
