Manchester United's new head coach, Ruben Amorim, faces the challenge of improving the squad's performance without raiding his former club, Sporting CP. As the January transfer window approaches, strategic reinforcements become essential.
As Manchester United embarks on a challenging season, increasing attention is being focused on newly appointed head Coach Ruben Amorim and his approach to transfers. With the January transfer window approaching, there has been growing speculation about possible signings from Sporting CP, the club where Amorim has previously achieved success. However, the coach has decisively put to rest any rumors of poaching players from his former team, stating clearly during a recent press conference, “I will not take any of Sporting’s players in January. But that’s another story.” This clear statement, although assertive, prompts curiosity about where Amorim will seek to strengthen his team in crucial positions.
One player often linked with a potential move to Old Trafford is Sporting's dynamic forward, Viktor Gyokeres. The Swedish striker is on an impressive scoring streak, having netted 20 goals in just 16 matches this season, after an outstanding record of 43 goals in 50 appearances last season. Gyokeres' performance is certainly appealing, but Amorim points out the financial challenges, stating, “Gyokeres costs £100m. It’s very complicated.” Considering the club's prior summer spending over £200 million and an additional £25 million for Erik ten Hag's departure and Amorim's hiring, it is uncertain whether United is willing and able to invest heavily once more in January.
As Amorim gets ready to take on his role, he will undoubtedly conduct a comprehensive evaluation of his squad's requirements. Both analysts and former players are voicing their opinions on potential areas for enhancement. For instance, Owen Hargreaves has pointed out the need for a new center-back and a striker, even though the club had already attempted to strengthen these positions during the summer transfer window. United added defenders Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro to their ranks, along with forward Joshua Zirkzee. However, the early-season performances have been inconsistent; De Ligt has had trouble finding his rhythm, and Yoro has not yet been able to participate in competitive matches due to a fractured metatarsal sustained in the pre-season.
United's current difficulties in scoring, having only managed to score eight goals in their first nine matches while conceding 11, have increased calls for strategic reinforcements. "I think he needs a striker, and I think he needs a centre-back," Hargreaves commented on Premier League Productions, showing optimism about the incoming coach's potential impact. "But I'm just excited. I think we just needed a change, and this is a brilliant change, and I'm sure he's going to want to spend some money." Besides Gyokeres, there are rising rumors about a potential move for Benfica's left-back, Alvaro Fernandez, who left United's academy this past summer.
Luke Shaw's ongoing recovery issues and Tyrell Malacia’s slow return to action after a long injury break underscore the need for a reliable defensive option. United has a buy-back clause in Fernandez's contract with Benfica, making him an appealing choice for Amorim, who knows the player from competing in the same league as Sporting. Fernandez, recognized as the reserve player of the year in 2022 but never making a senior appearance for United, stands out as a potential solution to strengthen United's left side. His understanding of the club and proven abilities could add the essential stability and depth to a defense currently facing difficulties.
