5 Players Manchester United Should Target In The January Transfer Window


Ole Gunnar Solskjaer
Solskjaer has been forced to rely on Maguire and Lindelof as they're the only ones available

As we reach the midway point of the season, Manchester United have had their fair share of ups and downs. Sitting 3rd in the Premier League on the back of some great performances, while having a disappointing Champions League Group Stage exit, getting knocked out at the very last moment. In the recent games, it's been clear that the club lack in having backups for some positions. As the winter transfer window approaches, Ole should take a look at these guys who can fill the void.  

  1. David Alaba

David Alaba
David Alaba seems to be heading out of Bayern Munich and Manchester United should capitalize

The 28-year-old Austrian is the talk of the upcoming transfer market, as he'll be out-of-contract next summer. Several clubs are planning to get Alaba for the quality, experience, and versatility he brings. The Bayern Munich defender is at the peak of his powers at the moment and hence could massively improve our team.

Manchester United has struggled in defense for some time due to a lack of quality central halves. One could argue the case as Tuanzebe and Bailly are still at the club, but unfortunately, both of them are highly injury-prone and hence, unreliable. If the club tries to complete the Alaba deal in January, it'll make a big impact in the backline. The left-footed center-back can form a great partnership with either Maguire or Lindelöf. In fact, Lindelöf's recent comments stating he's been playing through pain further justify the need for a CB this window.

Alaba's contract will end in summer but it'd be better if United looks up to him in January. There will be big clubs including Manchester City who'd bid for him before next season and it might be difficult for the club to get The Champions League Winner to Old Trafford. Getting Alaba in January makes more sense as Bayern Munich would be looking to get some money for the Austrian rather than let him leave for free.

2. Dayot Upamecano

Dayot Upamecano
Upamecano is easily the best-emerging center-backs

One of the best up and coming Defenders, the RB Leipzig center-back has performed really well in the Bundesliga and the Champions League as well.

The 22-year-old Frenchman has a higher market value as compared to David Alaba with so many years in him. He has enough experience and fits the right age profile to be a rock in Manchester United's defense for at least the next 8-10 years. The Greater Manchester club can afford suitable wages for him as well. RB Leipzig will be playing the Round of 16 in Feb after knocking Manchester United out in the Group Stage. If we try to make a bid in January, it'll be up to both Upamecano and the club whether he'd like to make the switch to Old Trafford. Hence, this 

If United are able to get a bid done in January it'd be a big boost up for the Red Devils as the Centre-back can increase chances for a stable defense which has been a problem for United in Some matches.

3. Denis Zakaria

                                 

With Nemanja Matić being the sole DMF at the club, it has been quite a problem for the management to deal with the formation in each game. Whenever Matić isn't available in the squad, the defensive stability at the mid lacks way behind as the club doesn't have any backups available.

Borussia Mönchengladbach midfielder Denis Zakaria might be the best solution right now who can preserve the position. The Anchor man's ball-winning ability, stamina, and athleticism can give a prominent setup for Ole's Midfield. Zakaria has just recovered from a long-term knee injury, returning to action after nearly 9 months.

While a summer move is more likely to happen, Zakaria is an ideal signing for the Red Devils. If they want him in January then a really strong bid will be demanded.

4. Ousmane Dembélé

Ousmanne Dembele
A world-class talent, impeded by injuries and attitude

Ousmane Dembélé, the man whose name comes up in every transfer window and ends up staying in Barcelona and playing hardly half a season thereafter.

The Frenchmen has got everything to be one of the best at his level. He has been linked to Manchester United in the past few years but there hasn't been any concrete deal went through between the Clubs. Finding a winger must be the priority for the club as this is the place where we're struggling the most right now. For that spot, Ousmane Dembélé can be the right option.

The main concern for the 23-year-old Barcelona forward is injuries. If in future this issue gets resolved then Dembélé can provide great service to the club.


5. Memphis Depay

                                 
     
A Well-Known Face at Old Trafford

Last but certainly not least, The Dutch Striker needs no introduction at the Topmost Level.

Lyon's Forward Memphis Depay has been the club's main man since joining from Manchester United back in 2017. It's quite remarkable to see that since then Memphis is performing incredibly for the club. His striking skill has proven great for Lyon in recent years. This season itself he stands among the top 5 goal scorers and top 10 assist makers in the French Ligue 1.

Last year in an interview, Memphis stated that he wants to play for a big club specifying the list of clubs he's interested in. The 26-year old's last spell at Manchester United wasn't a memorable one as he was declared a flop at the end. But time has changed his character and sportsmanship as the Dutchman has matured in his game. His abilities have grown up massively and Memphis has always shown his love towards Manchester United.

It'd be nothing less than a hijack if Manchester United grabs a bid for him in January as he looks set to leave for Camp Nou.

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