It is notoriously difficult to make signings in the January transfer window, however, Manchester United are thought to be considering bringing in a forward to bolster their attack, Fabrizio Romano has revealed.
This is exciting news for Manchester United fans and will further raise the spirits among a fanbase who have seen their team’s form drastically improve after their dismal start to the season.
So, who exactly are these mystery players?
Manchester United Considering Bolstering Their Attack in January
Three Strikers on Manchester United Transfer Radar
Victor Oshimen
Victor Oshimen is a player who was heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford in the summer transfer window, and although the move never materialised, Manchester United are thought to still be huge admirers of the 23-year-old.
However, Fabrizio Romano appears to have quashed the rumours linking the striker with a move to Manchester United in January.
First Nigerian in Serie A history to score 10+ goals in back to back seasons.
Victor Oshimen pic.twitter.com/bv3G33z00L— Fola (@manlikefola_) March 19, 2022
The transfer guru stated: “I’ve seen many rumours about Napoli striker Victor Osimhen – a very good striker, a very important player. My understanding is the only chance to sign him was towards the end of the summer, but they decided to go for Antony as their priority.
“At the moment, Napoli have absolutely no intention to sell Osimhen in January. They’re having an amazing season and Osimhen is a big part of that. They’ve always said it would take more than €100m, so it won’t be easy in January to tempt Napoli into a sale.”
So whilst it does appear that the move would be very difficult to get done, Man United certainly have the resources available to place a bid that could potentially tempt Napoli into a January sale.
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Memphis Depay
A much more likely transfer is the possible return of Memphis Depay to Old Trafford.
The Dutchman has publicly stated his desire to play more games for Barcelona under current manager Xavi, and could be tempted into a move away from the Nou Camp if his situation hasn’t improved come January.
Erik Ten Hag is a known admirer of the forward and the Dutch connection between the two adds an extra layer of possibility to this potential deal.
On the topic of Depay to Manchester United, Romano said: “Memphis Depay will be out of contract at the end of the season, so could be one to watch for Manchester United in January. He wasn’t a priority in the summer, even though there was an opportunity that they explored.”
He may not have been a priority in the summer, but with less than one season left on Depay’s Barcelona contract, he is expected to be available for a cut-rate price, which could tempt the English giants into opening negotiations for the 28-year-old.
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Cody Gakpo
Manchester United were very interested in Cody Gakpo throughout the summer transfer window, however, it was Leeds United that came the closest to signing the Dutchman – with a potential move to Elland Road falling through during the latter stages of the window.
However, Manchester United are thought to still be very interested in the winger and could make a swoop for the player in January, with Fabrizio Romano saying: “Cody Gakpo could be one to watch – we know he was really close to joining Leeds towards the end of the summer, and for Man United, he was a serious option as well.
Cody Gakpo has 20 direct goal involvements in his last 13 appearances in all competitions this season.
He can’t be stopped right now. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/0onEDcXyjq
— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) September 22, 2022
“They had good contacts with the player, he shares an agent with Erik ten Hag, and there is a feeling that English clubs will come back in for Gakpo in January. United know he could be an option, and how he performs in the World Cup could end up being important for his future.”
If Manchester United are able to acquire the signature of one of these three players in the January transfer window, they would be in a great position to make a push for a top-four finish in the Premier League this season.