Manchester United are keen to strengthen their midfield department and a decision has now been made regarding any January additions.
Michael Carrick has completed his return to Manchester United as an interim head coach, but unfortunately, the 44-year-old is no longer able to lace up his boots and play in midfield.
Previously, Carrick said United must build around Kobbie Mainoo in midfield, so the Carrington graduate can expect to play a big part in the remainder of the 2025/26 season.
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Beyond that, though, United do need midfield reinforcements. Casemiro’s contract is expiring and Manuel Ugarte is being linked with an exit following an underwhelming run of form.
United have a very long list of midfield targets for 2026, and the January transfer window is now open.
How Man United feel about signing a midfielder in January
When the window first opened, reports claimed that United would make no January signings. There is a belief in the club hierarchy that player price tags are inflated in the winter market.
According to ESPN, United are aware of their need for a midfielder, but Ineos are willing to wait until the summer to strike a deal.
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It means newly-appointed head coach Carrick will have to work with the squad left by Ruben Amorim for the rest of the season.
United have refused to back interim managers in the past and it has come back to haunt them, but it seems Carrick will also have to make do with no new signings this month.
Man United’s three midfield targets for 2026
The ESPN report adds that United have three leading targets for a new midfielder in 2026.
United remain interested in Carlos Baleba after enquiring about the Brighton midfielder last summer. Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton and Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson are also at the top of the shopping list.
However, Baleba, Wharton and Anderson are all unavailable over the winter market and will require a huge transfer fee to lure to Old Trafford in the summer.
United continue to be linked with Ruben Neves, but Ineos are hesitant to sign off on deals that may be viewed as short-term fixes.
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