United Beyond Manchester

Manchester United is a mess right now. Signings are injured or struggling on the pitch, and Erik Ten Hag is under fire for the team’s lackluster performances.

The squad needs upgrades, so which three positions should the club consider during the January transfer window?

Left Back

A true left back has yet to start a game for Manchester United this season. Diogo Dalot has been the primary option for Ten Hag, while Lisandro Martinez has been forced wide as well. While Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia are nearing a return, they are not reliable, long-term options for United.

Left back rumors have been swirling since the summer and have only gotten louder through the early part of the season. One player that United reportedly holds interest in is Fulham defender Antonee Robinson. Previously, Ben Chilwell and Miguel Gutierrez were targets and could be revisited as cheaper options in January.

Striker

Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee have combined for a grand total of two goals this season. Zirkzee looks uncomfortable in front of goal and has missed far too many opportunities for Erik Ten Hag.

Rasmus Hojlund is improving weekly and looks the more likely option for the rest of the season. His performance and finish against Brentford should give United fans hope for the future, though he may not be ready to become a regular starter at Manchester United.

Manchester United’s main striker should be someone who can score 20-plus goals each season, and the club currently does not have that. In January, United should address the goal-scoring issues by looking at available experienced goal scorers. Viktor Gyokeres has eleven goals from eight appearances in Liga Portugal. Jonathan David has eight goals already this season for Lille. A striker is not the biggest priority for Manchester United currently, but these options should be in consideration if drastic measures are needed.

Attacking Midfielder

While an attacking midfielder transfer is unlikely to happen until the summer, a succession plan for Bruno Fernandes must be under consideration by United officials. The club’s Portuguese Magnifico turned 30 this year and has shown signs of a drop-off this season. He also was rumored to leave this summer before he eventually signed a new contract.

The $60 million-plus spent on Mason Mount does not seem to reflect his long-term potential.

Florian Wirtz is the best available attacking midfielder heading into next summer, but United is likely to miss out on the German due to the state of the club. If a solid, affordable option becomes available in January, watch this position, especially if there is an injury in this area of the field.

Manchester United’s squad needs upgrades. These are just a few areas and options for the club as the January window approaches.