Manchester United’s opportunity to move in the transfer window is dwindling with a focus on whether the club could add a midfielder for Michael Carrick this month
The clock is ticking down on the transfer window and Manchester United continue to be linked to deals before the month is up. Ruben Amorim had not expected much movement, but could Michael Carrick be presented with a different scenario?
United want to reinforce the centre of midfield, and with Bruno Fernandes now playing in a more advanced position, Kobbie Mainoo appears to be back in the fold. The club may require more depth to be successful, but have a limited calendar in which to offer opportunities following their cup exits.
The likes of Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson have been linked to significant moves to Old Trafford but are unlikely to be the subject of bids in the coming days. United continue to be discussed in relation to alternative options that could arrive sooner, however.
Former Premier League stars Ruben Neves and Ruben Loftus-Cheek could be available in the coming days. A deal for either is unlikely to be quite as expensive.
With that said, Mirror Football takes a look at some of the latest transfer news and rumours surrounding Old Trafford.
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Real Madrid open door
Real Madrid are not interested in signing Ruben Neves this month, according to reports in Spain, per Sport Witness. It is claimed that Los Blancos president Florentino Perez is not keen on signing new players in January.
Portuguese outlet, Record, makes a similar claim and suggests that Perez is reluctant to spend millions on Neves this month. The ex-Wolves star’s contract with Al Hilal expires in the summer.
This could provide an open route for Manchester United to make their move. United are said to be willing to spend €20million (£17.4m)to sign him in January.
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Amass move
Norwich City are closing in on a move for Manchester United youngster Harry Amass, according to our sister title the Manchester Evening News. The full-back starred on loan at Sheffield Wednesday in the first half of the season but now appears set to play his trade elsewhere for the remainder of 2025/26.
Norwich are looking to fill a gap left by injuries to Lucien Mahovo and Jeff Schlupp, and the Canaries are making progress for the 18-year-old. Recent talks are claimed to have pushed Amass’ future in the direction of East Anglia.
After beating West Brom, Norwich boss Philippe Clement said: “We’re busy with several players and several positions, and I hope we can get everything over the line. I know everybody’s working hard on that.
“We had a lot of talks also this week with several players and after the talks they were really interested in the project, this type of result will help also, because several players have the idea maybe, ‘Yes, but you’re in a relegation spot and until the end of the season you are going to play relegation football and kick and rush because you’re in trouble’.
“These games like this, help also. So I hope this will help some players also over the line. We are busy with several guys.”
Loftus-Cheek latest
Aston Villa have made an enquiry for Ruben Loftus-Cheek days after he was ‘offered’ to United. The former Chelsea youngster has fallen down the pecking order with AC Milan and could be sent on loan as he looks to push for the World Cup.
Villa are looking to make a move following an injury to Boubacar Kamara, who is set to be out for the rest of the season. The Athletic reports that Unai Emery’s side could attempt to bring in a midfielder on loan, with Loftus-Cheek noted to be in the frame.
The Villans have already missed out on a deal for Conor Gallagher this month, with Tottenham offering a permanent deal to Atletico Madrid. Loftus-Cheek was earlier reported to have been offered to United and ‘exploratory’ talks are said to have taken place.
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Sky Sports discounted Premier League and EFL package
Sky has slashed the price of its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle ahead of the 2025/26 season, saving members £192 and offering more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.
Sky will show at least 215 live Premier League games next season, an increase of up to 100 more.
