Manchester United have plans in action for transfers in 2026, but Andy Mitten has now claimed one position is no longer being prioritised.
Ruben Amorim was a deflated figure on Friday when he spoke to the press about transfers.
Amorim admitted Manchester United are unlikely to sign anyone, remaining coy and downbeat as his side also continues to be shredded by injuries.
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In an ideal world, January would see United add a midfielder and also additional attacking options to bolster a weakened group and cover the likely exit of Joshua Zirkzee.
However, over recent months, there has been another position that has seen players linked, although the chances of a deal happening now look slim if Andy Mitten is to be believed.
Manchester United no longer plotting move for a centre-back
While not seen as a top priority, United have been linked with centre-backs this season.
Marc Guehi has been linked with United, which would be an excellent addition to any team’s defensive line. Another frequently mentioned name has seen United watching Jeremy Jacquet.
However, now a move for a central defender doesn’t look likely, as renowned journalist Andy Mitten has stated on the United We Stand YouTube channel, with Ayden Heaven one factor.
“Three months ago, I was told United wanted a new central defender”, Mitten explained.
“And that’s changed. This situation changes all the time. And because it is still in play, United will see how Ayden Heaven does, for example. He’s done alright in recent games.
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“I think we’ve said it every time he’s played: he’s been excellent. He’s done his job and hasn’t looked out of place in any way.”
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“And if he establishes himself, then there’s less of a need to buy a new central defender.”
This makes a lot of sense, with Heaven really impressive for United over the past few weeks, and with a back four increasingly prevalent, the need for additional options is less.
Manchester United might need another defender in the summer due to Harry Maguire situation
While Heaven’s breakout might mean January isn’t considered a month to sign centre-backs, the summer could see this change.
Maguire is set to leave the club in the summer, as things stand, with his injury-plagued 2025/26 campaign doing no favours in convincing the club to retain him.
Now, Mitten has shared an update.
“Harry Maguire. There have been no talks with him. He can actually sign for another club today.
“He’s happy in Manchester. He’s a player on a big contract. Very popular in the dressing room. Big character, but he’s not playing. He’s been injured. So, you know, if you’re playing every week and you’re a star player, your situation changes.”
Maguire is still working back to fitness and faces an uphill battle to earn a new contract, and his exit might mean United need a new defender.
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