Manchester United Transfer Targets As Winless Run Reaches Nine Games

Defensive Targets For Old Trafford

Manchester United are stuck in a relegation battle following a 2-0 defeat against Chelsea. That result extended their winless streak to nine matches. Defender Lisandro Martinez previously criticized the club hierarchy about a lack of summer signings, and the defense remains a key area that needs work.

At left back, Adrien Truffert of Bournemouth and Tyrick Mitchell of Crystal Palace have caught attention. Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde has also been linked with a potential loan move in January.

For center back positions, Fulham captain Calvin Bassey is on the radar. Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite remains a target after United had a 45 million pound offer turned down in 2024. Other options being tracked include Murillo from Nottingham Forest, Castello Lukeba from RB Leipzig, and Edmond Tapsoba from Bayer Leverkusen.

Midfield Options Under Consideration

United spent over 150 million pounds on Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans, and Carlos Baleba during the summer. However, the squad still needs midfield additions, especially with captain Bruno Fernandes possibly needing to be replaced next summer.

Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong could be available in January after his injury issues. Meanwhile, Fermin Lopez has no desire to leave Barcelona despite interest. Alex Scott from Bournemouth is another player being linked.

Younger options include 18 year old Lennart Karl from Bayern Munich and Como attacking midfielder Nico Paz. United also saw a 40 million euro move for Atalanta midfielder Ederson fall through during the summer window.

Search For A Striker And Manager

Up front, United brought in Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and Benjamin Sesko, but they still lack a primary goal scorer. Former Brentford striker Ivan Toney is open to a move from Al Ahli. Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta and Freiburg striker Igor Matanovic are also options. Galatasaray plan to reject any January offers for Victor Osimhen.

The club could also look at potential managerial replacements for Michael Carrick. Unattached managers like Eddie Howe, Antonio Conte, Kieran McKenna, and Julian Nagelsmann have been mentioned. Fabian Hurzeler of Brighton and England manager Thomas Tuchel are other options, though Tuchel will not leave his national team position right now.