United have started to show tangible progress under Ruben Amorim. The head coach has at last managed to get his squad aligned with his tactical approach, and the club will be eager for this upward trajectory to continue.
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That said, there may be complications, as several of Old Trafford’s standout performers are being heavily linked with exits.
Fernandes, widely regarded as United’s top performer for much of his spell at the club, has attracted ongoing transfer speculation, and recent reports indicate the Red Devils may be prepared to sanction his departure.
It has been claimed that although Fernandes has a £56million release clause that becomes valid for non-English clubs in the summer, United would accept an offer of around £70million in January.
This comes amid increasing interest from Saudi Pro League sides Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad.
Offloading Fernandes would likely give United greater freedom to strengthen their midfield, with long-standing interest in Premier League talents Carlos Baleba, Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton.
Such a move would align with the club’s strategy of moving on expensive, ageing players in order to inject more energy and youth into the squad.
United could part ways with two midfielders, as Kobbie Mainoo has drawn attention from several elite European teams.
Recent updates suggest Barcelona president Joan Laporta is particularly keen on bringing the United midfielder to Camp Nou.
Nevertheless, reports indicate that Mainoo would favour a switch to Real Madrid instead.
The Spanish giants are reportedly ‘studying the market’ and see Mainoo as a possible acquisition, although no final decision has been made, especially with Napoli also showing strong interest in the England international.
While Amorim has been firm in his stance that he does not want to sell Joshua Zirkzee, the club hierarchy may be prepared to override him.
According to Calciomercato, the striker’s agent Kia Joorabchian has offered ‘almost complete openness’ to Roma regarding potential negotiations.
Discussions between the clubs are said to be progressing around a loan arrangement that includes an option to buy for €35million (£30.7m).
United are reportedly only willing to allow Zirkzee to leave late in January, as their attacking options will already be reduced earlier in the month due to Bryan Mbeumo’s involvement at the Africa Cup of Nations.
The Red Devils have also received encouraging news with young defender Tyler Fredricson returning to training after featuring earlier in the campaign.
Observers believe his return to first-team sessions suggests a competitive comeback could follow in the near future.
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