Manchester United‘s transfer activity is heating up as the January window approaches its closing stages. Michael Carrick‘s side are yet to make any new signings this month, and the prospects of bolstering the squad appear slim. Nevertheless, several midfielders have been touted as potential arrivals at Old Trafford.
The club’s decision-makers are understood to be willing to invest only at the appropriate valuation or if a long-standing target faces competition from rivals. This week has seen Cole Palmer unexpectedly emerge as a reported transfer target. The England star grew up supporting United, and speculation suggests he may be becoming discontented in the capital. Meanwhile, striker reinforcements have also been mooted amid questions over Joshua Zirkzee’s long-term future.
Here’s a round-up of the latest news coming out of Old Trafford…
Palmer’s stance on Man Utd move
Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior has moved to dismiss Cole Palmer‘s reported links to United this week, insisting the player remains settled at Stamford Bridge.
Palmer, who supported United as a youngster and maintains a close friendship with Kobbie Mainoo, has been the subject of claims suggesting unrest in London.
However, Rosenior has made clear Palmer continues to feature in Chelsea’s long-term thinking.
“I’ve had numerous conversations with Cole and he seems very happy to be here,” he stated.
“He’s a huge part in our long-term plans. My job and the club’s job is to get him into a situation where he can consistently perform to the level he wants to.
“There was frustration in the Brentford game. We need to look after him and that’s why I didn’t involve him in the last game.”
Striker ‘waiting’ for Old Trafford switch
Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta is reportedly ‘waiting’ for United to make their move this January as he seeks to depart the Selhurst Park club.
Mateta attracted United’s attention last summer following his impressive goalscoring record in the capital.
The French international has made Palace aware of his wish to move on, with a Champions League side said to be his preferred destination.
His deal runs until 2027 and he is expected to command a £35m fee.
According to reports, Mateta is anticipating an approach from United in January to secure his signature. Nevertheless, there is currently no firm interest from Carrick’s team at this point.