Manchester United’s 2025 January Transfer Wishlist: Key Targets and Priorities

As Manchester United approaches the 2025 January transfer window, the club finds itself at a pivotal moment. With a new manager at the helm and lingering issues across multiple positions, this transfer window represents an opportunity to begin addressing the cracks in the squad. However, financial constraints and the challenges of the January market mean United must be strategic in their approach.

Here’s a breakdown of United’s key priorities and potential targets as they prepare for a crucial few weeks.

1. Left-Back: A Long-Standing Problem

The Issue

The left-back position has been a persistent headache since the 2022/23 season.

• Luke Shaw: Struggling with recurring injuries.
• Tyrell Malacia: Still regaining full fitness after over a year out.
• Diogo Dalot: Often deputized on the left but is naturally a right-back, leaving the right flank exposed.

Potential Targets

1. Milos Kerkez (Bournemouth):
   • A promising Hungary international.
   • Proven in the Premier League but could be expensive due to his current club’s reliance on him.
2. Antonee Robinson (Fulham):
   • Expressed interest in a move to a bigger club.
   • Offers pace and defensive reliability.
3. Rayan Ait-Nouri (Wolves):
   • Premier League experience and attacking flair.
   • Likely to come with a hefty price tag.
4. Bradley Locko (Brest):
   • A rising talent in Ligue 1, potentially a more affordable option.

2. Left Wing/Inside Forward: Preparing for Life Without Rashford

The Issue

Marcus Rashford’s future at Old Trafford remains uncertain, and injuries to key players like Mason Mount have left United short on attacking depth. Alejandro Garnacho has shown promise but lacks experience to carry the burden alone.

Potential Targets

1. Leroy Sané (Bayern Munich):
   • Former Manchester City star with world-class ability.
   • Bayern may be open to selling due to his expiring contract.
2. Kenan Yildiz (Juventus):
   • A highly-rated 19-year-old talent.
   • Juventus may sell to raise funds, making him an intriguing long-term prospect.

3. Striker: Addressing the Goal-Scoring Crisis

The Issue

United’s inability to convert chances into goals has been a glaring problem.

• Current Output: Just 21 goals in 17 Premier League games (1.2 goals per game).
• Comparison: Liverpool averages 2.3 goals per game, highlighting United’s deficiencies.

While Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Højlund have shown flashes of potential, neither has consistently delivered the firepower needed to compete at the highest level.

Potential Targets

1. Viktor Gyökeres (Sporting CP):
   • Formerly managed by Ruben Amorim, the prolific Swede has been linked with United.
   • Major obstacle: His €100m (£83m) release clause, which may be out of reach.
2. Randal Kolo Muani (PSG):
   • A versatile forward who could be available on loan.
   • Offers mobility and creativity, making him a short-term solution worth exploring.
3. Loan Options:
   • United has previously utilized the loan market to address striker shortages, though past attempts (e.g., Odion Ighalo, Wout Weghorst) have had limited success.

Strategic Considerations

Budget Constraints

United’s financial situation and the need to comply with Premier League Sustainability Rules (PSR) will limit their spending. This means prioritizing value-for-money deals and potentially targeting loan signings.

January Market Challenges

January is notoriously difficult for major signings, as clubs are reluctant to part with key players mid-season. United will need to act decisively and creatively to secure their targets.

Conclusion

Manchester United’s 2025 January transfer window is shaping up to be a defining moment for the club. Addressing the left-back position, adding depth on the left wing, and securing a reliable goal-scorer are critical steps in revitalizing the squad. While constraints may limit their activity, smart and strategic moves could set the foundation for a stronger second half of the season.

FAQs

1. Why is the left-back position a priority for Manchester United?
Recurring injuries to Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia have left the position vulnerable, forcing makeshift solutions like Diogo Dalot to fill in.

2. Who is the most likely striker target for United?
Viktor Gyökeres is an ideal target, but his release clause makes a move challenging. Randal Kolo Muani on loan may be a more feasible option.

3. Is Leroy Sané a realistic target for United?
Sané’s expiring contract at Bayern Munich makes him a potential January target, though competition for his signature could drive up the price.

4. What’s the biggest challenge for United in the January window?
Balancing the need for reinforcements with financial constraints and the limited availability of quality players mid-season.

5. Can Manchester United solve all their problems in January?
No, but addressing key areas like left-back and striker will be crucial to improving their fortunes in the second half of the season.