Manchester United could make further squad adjustments when the January transfer window opens.
Ruben Amorim has made several changes since becoming Manchester United’s head coach in November 2024.
In his first full season at Old Trafford, Amorim has hinted at changing his system, after previously stressing that he would stick to a back-three formation. It comes at a time when the Red Devils are knocking on the door of the Premier League’s top four.
Other changes include the goalkeeper, as well as revamping the attack department.
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With Amorim also trying to assemble a team that will achieve long-term success, several players are facing slim prospects of first-team minutes, meaning exits are on the cards.
United are not renowned for selling players permanently in January, with Ryan Curley, Anthony Elanga and Daniel James the recent examples, but here are three United players who could leave this month if the right offers come in.
Joshua Zirkzee
Although signed as a striker from Bologna in 2024, United fans quickly learned that Joshua Zirkzee is not a goalscorer. The Dutchman has an array of attributes, but four goals in 43 Premier League games is an abysmal return for a player who cost £36.5 million.
Zirkzee is not getting the minutes he needs at United to warrant a place in the Netherlands squad for the 2026 World Cup, amassing a total of 402’ minutes on the pitch so far this season.
The 24-year-old has been limited to just three starts in the Premier League and there has been reported interest from Italy.
It’s also worth noting that Amorim reacted furiously when Zirkzee didn’t press hard enough against Newcastle.
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Tyrell Malacia
Tyrell Malacia was among the list of players told they could leave in the summer by Amorim.
The Netherlands international made his first appearance of the season in United’s 1-0 win over Newcastle on Boxing Day, getting just two minutes on the pitch, but it could easily be his final appearance of the season.
Malacia is out of contract in six months, but United won’t be blocking any moves after many failed to materialise for the left-back in the summer.
Manuel Ugarte
Manuel Ugarte has struggled since joining United in 2024, failing to show that he could replace Casemiro in midfield.
The Uruguayan is currently getting a run of games due to injuries, but he will be aware of how regularly he gets overlooked when Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes are fit.
Ugarte’s reunion with Amorim has not gone to plan, but United face a huge loss when they sell the midfielder, which makes this deal less likely next month than others.
However, Galatasaray are interested in Ugarte, so there’s always a chance of some movement in January.
Only time will tell if the Turkish outfit is committed to signing Ugarte permanently or simply wants him on loan for the remainder of the season. The latter wouldn’t benefit United as Amorim’s squad is already light in midfield.
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