Manchester United are preparing for a very active January transfer window. Ruben Amorim wants changes in several positions, and the club is now looking at new defenders, midfield exits and even a possible attacking signing. United are interested in Elche centre-back David Affengruber and Manuel Ugarte may leave after a difficult spell. Antoine Semenyo is also being watched closely. It is shaping up to be an important window for United’s rebuild.
UNITED LOOK TO FIX KEY ISSUES
United have not been consistent this season. They have dropped points in matches they were expected to control. The defence has struggled for stability, and the midfield has lacked balance. These issues have made it clear that the squad needs strengthening if United want to push for a better league position and compete for Europe again.
Amorim has been clear that he wants a squad that matches his style of play. Some players have adjusted well, but others are still struggling to keep up with what he asks for. Ugarte is one of the players who has not been able to find any real rhythm this season. Because of this, United’s scouting team has been very active, checking targets across Europe and searching for affordable, reliable options. The January window now feels like an important chance for the club to fix several of their biggest problems.
AFFENGRUBER EMERGES AS TOP TARGET FOR DEFENCE
United is now targeting Elche centre back David Affengruber. He ranks among the best defenders in LaLiga this season. The 24-year-old joined Elche on a free transfer in 2024 and has quickly become their most important player in defence. He is strong in tackles, reads the game well and is calm when playing out from the back.
Elche have placed a €30m price tag on him. They want to keep him until the summer, but they also know it will be hard if he does not agree to a new contract. United scouts have watched him several times and sent very positive reports. Amorim likes him because he believes Affengruber could be a long-term partner for Leny Yoro.
The only problem is competition. Juventus, Sevilla and Atletico Madrid also want him. United will need to move quickly if they want to win the race.
Meanwhile, Manuel Ugarte could be leaving. He cost more than £50m but has not lived up to expectations. He has started only two Premier League games this season. Galatasaray are keeping a close eye on him and may make an offer in January. United could let him go if they sign a replacement early in the window.
United are also watching Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth. He has a £65m release clause. Liverpool are also interested, which could complicate the deal.
FANS REACT TO TRANSFER LINKS
Fans have reacted strongly to the latest transfer news. Many supporters like the idea of signing Affengruber and feel he is the type of player United should target more often. Others worry that competition from European clubs may cause the deal to fall apart.
The possible exit of Ugarte has divided opinions. Some fans believe the manager did not give him enough minutes. Others feel the club should move him on and sign a midfielder who fits Amorim’s system better.
The Semenyo rumours have also created debate. Fans are unsure whether he would pick United over Liverpool, but many agree he would add energy and pace to the attack.
JANUARY WINDOW COULD CHANGE UNITED’S SEASON
These decisions may have a major impact on United’s future. Signing Affengruber would help fix a defence that has struggled all year. Letting Ugarte leave could free space for a more reliable midfielder. The Semenyo situation depends on the player’s choice, but he would bring new qualities if he joined.
The January window will show how serious United are about improving the squad. It will also reveal how much support Amorim will receive in building a team that suits his ideas.
UNITED BRACE FOR A BIG MONTH AHEAD
The decisions Manchester United makes in the January Transfer Window will play a big part in how the season unfolds.
As featured on ManUNews.com
