Manchester United have yet to add to their squad during the January transfer window as ex-player Michael Carrick begins his spell as interim manager at Old Trafford
Michael Carrick is back at Manchester United as interim manager(Image: PA)
As we near the midpoint of the January transfer window, Manchester United have yet to bolster their squad with new signings. However, there has been a shake-up in the managerial department, with Ruben Amorim being dismissed and Michael Carrick stepping in as interim manager for the remainder of the season.
The appointment of former United midfielder Carrick was announced on Tuesday, and he will be immediately thrust into the thick of things. United are set to host Manchester City on Saturday lunchtime, aiming to avenge their 3-0 loss at the Etihad Stadium last September.
It’s uncertain whether there will be significant transfer activity given the absence of a permanent manager. Last winter window saw Patrick Dorgu and Ayden Heaven move to Old Trafford, but much of the transfer talk around United appears to relate to the summer window.
Despite this, the potential of rival clubs vying for players on United’s radar could alter this approach. Two such players form the focus of our Manchester United transfer round-up.
Spurs deal has Gomes knock-on effect
Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes is among the Premier League talents to be linked with United as they look to strengthen their midfield. The club was already aware that Napoli could pose competition for the Brazilian international, but now another contender has emerged.
Atletico Madrid have joined the race, according to Sky Sports News. Diego Simeone’s side have funds available after selling Conor Gallagher to Tottenham for a reported £35million and are said to be in the market for a more defensive player following the sale of the Englishman.
Gomes, who transferred to Wolves from Flamengo in 2023, seems to be the perfect fit. However, it’s reported that Wolves are eager to retain the midfielder – valued at over £40m – as they continue their battle against relegation.
The 24-year-old was gradually integrated into the squad after signing under Julen Lopetegui in January 2023 but has been a regular since the Spanish manager’s exit. He has only missed seven Premier League games since the start of the 2023/24 season and his potential suitors aren’t deterred by the fact that his team are 14 points away from safety.
Juve make Mateta bid
United have long admired Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta but they’re not the only ones. Sky Sport Italia reports that Juventus have made a bid for the French international, though Palace appear to be holding out for move than the £30m on the table.
Mateta’s contract expires at the end of the 2026/27 season and it has been suggested that his contract situation is responsible for the decrease in the valuation. United were linked in 2025 only to seemingly be put off by an asking price approaching £50m.
Crystal Palace star Jean-Philippe Mateta has plenty of admirers(Image: Getty Images)
Former Mainz striker Mateta has netted eight goals in 21 Premier League matches this season, following double-digit tallies in the previous two seasons. The 28-year-old also boasts two goals from three senior appearances for France, having made his debut for Les Bleus in October.
Juventus, who look set to miss out to Roma in the hunt for Donyell Malen, are on the hunt for attacking reinforcements after losing Dusan Vlahovic to injury. Serbian striker Vlahovic, whose contract expires in the summer, hasn’t seen action since late November due to an adductor injury.
On the other hand, United filled their striker void with the £73m signing of Benjamin Sesko last summer. However, the Slovenian has yet to fully hit his stride this season, and with Joshua Zirkzee seemingly set for a departure this year, Mateta could continue to be on United’s radar.
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