Manchester United are gearing up for their first game under Ruben Amorim when take on Ipswich Town at Portman Road on Sunday.
The Portuguese boss, who arrived at Old Trafford last week, officially began his duties earlier this week as he looks to guide the club forward. There are just six weeks until the January transfer window reopens in the new year, which will give Amorim plenty of time to figure out whether he reinforcements will be needed.
After spending more than £200million on transfers last summer, United could have a more restricted budget to operate with this time around. The club have also dished out around £35m in compensation.
Around £10m was paid to Newcastle United for sporting director Dan Ashworth while around £17m will be handed out to Erik ten Hag in sacking pay-out.
Ahead of what could be a busy new year for the Reds nonetheless, the Manchester Evening News will keep you up to date with all the latest news and transfer gossip around United. A reunion between Amorim and his former player Viktor Gyokeres continues to do the rounds but whether that will happen, remains to be seen.
With that said, look back at the Man United news from Thursday.
Marcus Rashford must step up under Ruben Amorim or 'he’ll have a problem'
Speaking to TribalFootball.com, he said:"Ruben Amorim’s arrival is a pivotal moment in the Manchester United career of Marcus Rashford. The new manager will bring fresh ideas and a new motivation which Rashford needs to use to rediscover his best form because he hasn’t been enjoying his football.
"His body language under Erik ten Hag was not of a player who enjoyed playing and those were not good signs, he needs to buy into the new system because if he doesn’t he will be moved on by Amorim. It’s up to both the player and the manager but predominantly Rashford, he’s on huge money but sometimes that isn’t enough motivation. When I was working at United, the big intrinsic motivation was one, to play for Manchester United and number two, to be successful at Manchester United. It was all about winning.
"It's all about winning games, all about winning trophies and that motivation, it comes from within. That is already a coping mechanism to deal with when things are not going that well. Rashford isn’t a young player anymore and he has to live up to expectations and find that desire and passion to play for United again, or he’ll have a problem and might be looking for a new club."
Manchester United 'hold talks' over January transfer that Erik ten Hag wanted in 2023
Manchester United have reportedly held talks with Paris Saint-Germain striker Randal Kolo Muani over a potential loan move in the January transfer window.
According to Le10 Sport, initial talks have taken place to bring Kolo Muani to the Premier League when the January transfer window opens. It's claimed a loan move until the end of the season is United's preferred option.
Kolo Muani was previously on United's radar in 2023 prior to his move to PSG. The 25-year-old moved to France from Eintracht Frankfurt for £64.2m plus £12.2m in add-ons but has only managed to score 11 times in 52 games.
Man United discover 'big problem' that could cost £55m if Ruben Amorim can't find solution
Ruben Amorim has been warned that Manchester United could lose millions if he can't rejuvenate Marcus Rashford. The 27-year-old forward struggled to impress under Erik ten Hag but, with a new head coach in the dugout, he'll be hoping to turn over a new leaf.
Rashford, who sees his contract at Old Trafford expire in June 2028, has featured 11 times in the Premier League this season, scoring one goal and providing one assist. Despite playing such a prominent role, he's disappointed, losing his place in the England squad.
Speaking to SportsKeeda, Paul Merson warned co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe that United could have a 'big problem' on their hands if Amorim can't help Rashford return to his former self. The Arsenal legend said: "Marcus Rashford was clearly not the first-choice in attack under Ruud van Nistelrooy.
"So he has to turn things around under Amorim. If he is unable to do that, I think United have a big problem. Rashford's wages are going to become an issue if they want to move him on. I don't know who buys him at the moment. It will be interesting to see how he performs under Amorim, certainly something to keep an eye on."
Man United learn transfer fee for Orkun Kokcu
Interest is growing in the Benfica star who could reportedly be allowed to leave in the new year, according to reports.
Caught Offside meanwhile, suggest that the Portuguese giants are looking for a fee of around €60-70million. The Turkey international has previously worked under Liverpool boss Arne Slot at Feyenoord.
The report adds that Liverpool could be in a stronger position to land him given the connection to the Dutch boss.
Jamie Carragher says what Ruben Amorim did in first week at Man United should excite supporters
Jamie Carragher says the confidence Ruben Amorim has shown in his own ability should breed confidence among Manchester United supporters.
Former Liverpool star Jamie Carragher does 'not think this squad is suited to three at the back', he believes Amorim’s self-assurance will go a long way.
"I’ve been really impressed with what the manager has said so far," he told The Overlap US. "He certainly has charisma, a personality, he’s laughing and joking with questions. He got asked the question, ‘If I’m a Manchester United fan, what can I see on day one?'
"And more often than not a manager would bat that question away and say, ‘Oh, hang on, I’ve only had two training sessions, we’ve got a long way to go, there’s a lot to change.’ But he’s just said straightaway, ‘I can guarantee you that you will see a plan, you’ll see an idea in the first two or three games'.
"I’m not a Manchester United fan, obviously, but if I’m a Manchester United fan that would fill me with confidence that he was so confident in his abilities, his system."
Man United 'continue' monitoring Bayern Munich star
Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Man United 'will continue' monitoring Alphonso Davies as the left-back position is a department the club have reportedly made a priority.
"As I told you, there is still no agreement done with any club. Real Madrid remain there. But for Alphonso Davies, there are several possibilities. So let’s see what’s going to happen," Romano said.
"On Manchester United, a name I already told you last year, because Manchester United were monitoring this player, and keep monitoring this player."
Former Jose Mourinho star rules out Man United return and hints at future
Former Manchester United star Nemanja Matic has hinted towards his future in Ligue 1 after joining Lyon earlier this year.
The Serbian left Old Trafford in the summer of 2022, ending a five-year spell. He initially joined AS Roma as a free agent where he stayed for one season before completing the move to Rennes last summer.
Despite only playing a total of 689 minutes in Ligue 1 and the Europa League, Matic is focussed on helping the team when called upon. He told L'Equipe: "Football players have to do their job. We are paid to play, to represent our club. I am happy with what they said. I am confident, if there are problems, they will solve them. We do not want to think about anything else but the next step, playing on Saturday.
When quizzed about the transfer window reopening in less than six weeks, Matic has suggested he is keen to remain in France, adding: "Everyone for sale? We need a team to play. This is the first time I've heard that everyone is for sale. I've never experienced that. I understand the question, but I don't think it's true."
Joshua Zirkzee future claim
Italian outlet La Sampa (via Calcio Mecato) has claimed the striker has requested his agent to find him another move in the winter with Juventus a possible destination.
There has been speculation over the Dutchman's future since the sacking of Erik ten Hag. The striker was one of the signings requested by the former manager.
The report adds that Juve could be his next destination however, with manager Thiago Motta thought to be a fan of Zirkzee. Motta has previously worked with Zirkzee at Bologna.
He has struggled for form, having so far scored once in 17 appearances in all competitions.
Ruud van Nistelrooy return timeline emerges after emotional Manchester United exit
Ruud van Nistelrooy is reportedly hopeful of landing a permanent manager's role in the Premier League after his emotional exit from Manchester United this month.
The 48-year-old was appointed as interim manager - after Erik ten Hag was sacked as manager - in October and oversaw three wins and one draw during his four games at the helm. Football Insider reckons that Van Nistelrooy is hopeful of landing a return to the Premier League soon, with Russell Martin (Southampton), Gary O'Neil (Wolves) and Oliver Glasner (Crystal Palace) all facing pressure to keep their respective jobs with their teams currently propping up the top-flight standings.
Earlier this week, it was also claimed that the former PSV Eindhoven head coach was under consideration for the vacant manager's role at Coventry City, although the Championship outfit are yet to make an appointment.
Viktor Gyokeres 'happy' at Sporting CP
Sporting Lisbon assistant boss Tiago Teixeira has insisted star striker Viktor Gyokeres is 'very happy' in the Portuguese capital amid reports linking him with a move to Manchester United.
Teixeira, speaking to the Portuguese media, said: "We are prepared to welcome him today to train for the first time [since being away on international duty] and we are very happy to have him here.
"He is also very happy with the season he is having representing Sporting and his national team. He is very happy to be here. What we want is to have him for as long as possible."
Gyokeres, who joined Sporting for a fee of around £20million, has already played down reports linking him with a move to Old Trafford.
He said: "These are rumours, nothing concrete. Of course, I want to finish the season at Sporting. I enjoy my time there. I don't feel stressed about making a change in the future. We'll see when the time comes.
"He [Amorim] probably already has strikers there. It's very sad that he left [Sporting], but of course, we understand the decision. He meant a lot to me, as he gave me an opportunity and helped me evolve a lot."
Jules Kounde claim
Reports in Spain claim United have 'launched an improved bid' to bring Barcelona centre-back Jules Kounde in January.
The France international has been with the Spanish giants since 2022 and has 105 appearances to date. It's said Ruben Amorim sees him as a player who would be suited to play in the right wing-back slot.
Potential Angel Gomes return?
Angel Gomes is reportedly being linked with a return to Old Trafford under new boss Ruben Amorim.
The 24-year-old came through Man United's youth team before joining Lille in 2020. Recent reports have claimed the club are now 'stepping up their quest' to bring him back to Manchester.
Transfer plans revealed
Fabrizio Romano has shared that Man United have reportedly made left-back a priority position in the transfer window.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano said: "For Man United, first of all, in general, left-back is a priority position. So Man United want to cover that position.
"This summer, they decided to go with Noussair Mazraoui, this was the plan. So last summer, last transfer window, because they believed that Mazraoui could cover the two positions, right and left-back.
"But in 2025, Man United want to sign an important left-back to also play in a different kind of position for Ruben Amorim. He wants a top left-footed player in that position."
Transfer contact 'made' ahead of January
Paris Saint-Germain's Kolo Muani is reportedly a target for Man United.
French outlet Le 10 Sport report United have ‘made contact’ in a deal to sign the striker amid uncertainty over Joshua Zirkzee's future.
Speaking to the French media while on international duty this month, Muani said: "No, I’ve never thought about leaving PSG in January. I have to work more and make my mark when he (Enrique) calls on me. I think that will do it."
It remains to be seen whether United will approach the French giants in the new year.
Antony might have Manchester United lifeline after 'annoyed' comment
The majority of fans believe Manchester United should cut their losses on Antony.
The winger's time in Manchester since he signed from Ajax in a deal worth £86million has been disastrous and he looks destined to be remembered as one of the worst signings in the club's history.
"I definitely need more goal participations and to score more goals," he told a handful of journalists in a Beverly Hills hotel while on pre-season tour in August. "It's something I demand from myself. Rest assured, you'll hear the name Antony in relation to goals and assists.
"A lot happened last season. I played full back and was a little uneasy about it but that was because with the team losing or drawing you want to be in the attack to turn things around and help the team, so being moved into defence bothered me a bit, you feel annoyed in the moment during the game, but afterwards it's all fine."
The 24-year-old also vowed he would score more goals with his right foot and told reporters he would show them "his notes one day." Antony does not lack self belief - he wouldn't be at United without it - but he's failed to back up his words on the pitch, which is how he's judged.
Man United receive transfer response
United are reportedly leading the race for Rosenborg midfielder Sverre Nypan, according to reports.
However, Give Me Sport has reported the 17-year-old is keen to secure first-team assurances before making a decision on potentially moving to Old Trafford in the coming months.
He is said to be valued in the region of £84million and has been compared to Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard. Nypan joined Rosenborg in 2020 and broke into the first team in 2022.
Super agent Jorge Mendes mission
TEAMtalk report Geovany Quenda's agent Jorge Mendes is trying to secure the Sporting CP youngster a 'major move.'
The 17-year-old is being pursued by a host of clubs in Europe including Man United. He is under contract in Lisbon until 2027 and has a release clause worth £84million (€100m).
With that said, the report adds Old Trafford is a 'possible' destination. Meanwhile, the MEN understands United are tracking Quenda but are yet to make a formal bid.
Sporting CP star eyes Ruben Amorim reunion
Sporting CP centre-back Ousmane Diomande is reportedly growing increasingly keen on a move to United, eyeing a reunion with Amorim.
However, Sky Switzerland report United, Man City and Arsenal are all battling it out for his signature. The report adds that he has been on City's radar since his Midtjylland days and have made him as a ‘priority’ signing.
With that said, Amorim is claimed to have 'already spoken with Diamonde' over the prospect of joining him at Old Trafford. It's claimed the player knows 'it would be beneficial for his development' to continue with Amorim and is reportedly 'leaning towards' United.
United 'make' left-back decision
A new report speculates that United have made left-back one their priorty areas for reinforcement next year.
Ruben Amorim is expected to utilise the 3-4-3 formation he operated at Sporting CP, meaning wing-backs will be fielded.
It is unclear what Amorim makes of his current full-back options and whether he believes they are capable of making the transition.
Teamtalk claims the club are prioritising a left-back recruit in their transfer plans over the next few windows. Bayern Munich star Alphonso Davies - out of contract in June - has been linked with a potential switch in recent days.
Branthwaite links with United not going away
United are once again being linked with a move for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite.
According to the Daily Mail, United are weighing up whether or not to submit another offer to sign Branthwaite when the transfer window reopens in the New Year.
United have two bids rejected by Everton for Branthwaite in the summer, with the latter worth up to £50million including add-ons.
Amorim takes decision with Leny Yoro
Leny Yoro was withdrawn from the Manchester United Under 21 squad against Altrincham on Tuesday night.
Yoro, who is now involved in team training after recovering from a metatarsal fracture, was informed on Monday he was due to start at Altrincham in the 4-0 National League Cup victory.
He was removed from the squad after training under new head coach Ruben Amorim.
United 'contact' agents of PSG striker
United have touched base with the agents of Paris Saint-Germain forward Randal Kolo Muani, according to French outlet Le10 Sport.
PSG are apparently wishing to sign a new attacker this January but will need to offload personnel before doing so. Kolo Muani has started just two of his 12 games this season.
He has managed to score twice but has barely played 70 minutes in Ligue 1 since the end of September. All of his four Champions League appearances have been from the bench.
The 25-year-old is said to be a target for United, amid the possibility that Joshua Zirkzee leaves on loan in January to regain form after an unsettled start to his stay at Old Trafford.
Porro camp 'expecting' Amorim approach
Reports in Spain claim the representatives of Tottenham defender Pedro Porro are 'convinced' that Ruben Amorim will make an approach for him next year.
Spanish outlet AS suggests the pair still hold a great relationship from their time together at Sporting CP, when the right-back played 98 times under Amorim.
Porro played as a wing-back under the 39-year-old in Lisbon and could therefore be a target for Amorim at United, the report claims.
Sporting braced for United transfer raid on Quenda
Sporting expect Manchester United to make an offer for winger Geovany Quenda next year.
Quenda, 17, only made his Sporting debut in August and he was named in the Portugal squad for their Nations League draw with Croatia this week.
The Manchester Evening News revealed two weeks ago United are tracking Quenda but they are yet to submit a formal bid.
Zirkzee agent 'contacts' Juventus
A report in Italy claims that Joshua Zirkzee's agent has contacted Juventus over a potential January move amid the striker's unsettled start to life at Unied.
Zirkzee only arrived from Bologna in the summer, being signed for £36.5m. He has struggled to adapt to English football, failing to score in his last 16 appearances since scoring on debut against Fulham.
Now, Calciomercato says his agent, Kia Joorabchian, has been speaking with Juventus chief Cristiano Giuntoli about a winter loan back to Italy in a bid for the player to rediscover his form.
Sane addresses future amid United links
United have been tentatively linked with a potential move for Leroy Sane amid reports the German is looking to leave Bayern next summer.
The winger has been backed for a return to the Premier League, and he has now opened up about what the future may hold for him.
Speaking to BILD, he said: “I have confidence in myself, in the situation and also in my club. We are in a transparent and relaxed exchange.
“I will definitely not sign for another club on January 1 or 2. I don’t need a quick decision. I have a sympathy for the Premier League, I still watch certain games on TV.
"The attraction for me lies in the club where I can show my best performance, develop and win titles. I have that at Bayern. This is where I have my greatest challenge and goals.”
United 'dream' of Davies transfer
Yet more outlets are reporting that United hold an interest in Bayern Munich left-back Alphonso Davies.
The Canada interntional is out of contract next year and seems unlikely to pen a renewal at Bayern.
Sky Germany says United view Davies as a 'dream' signing and have been gathering extensive information about him and his thoughts on a possible move.
Zola in disbelief over McTominay sale
Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola claims some onlookers must be astonished that United let Scott McTominay leave for Napoli this summer, in light of his successful start to life in Italy.
The two clubs agreed a £25m fee for the Scot, who has been one of Antonio Conte's shining stars so far this season. Statistics-wise, he has tallied three goals and two assists in 10 matches thus far.
"He is among the best signings of the last summer," Zola told Corriere dello Sport.
“Here in England, they can’t understand how Man United could let him go. Perhaps it was a decision tied to the Financial Fair Play, but they haven’t digested it.”
United transfer clause could be the answer to Amorim request
Former United academy star Alvaro Fernandez Carreras now has two goals and two assists in 16 games this season.
Fernandez joined Benfica on loan in January 2024, with the Portuguese giants activating his buy-out clause option at the end of the season.
United did include a sell-on clause and a buy-back option, rumoured to be around £17m and in place until the end of the summer 2026 window.
United 'lodge interest' in Gyokeres
Portugese outlet Record claims United have penned an interest in Sporting CP star Viktor Gyokeres.
Ruben Amorim has already ruled out a move for him in January and has hinted at his £83m release clause being an issue.
However, United are apparently tracking the goalscorer, who registered 43 goals in 50 matches last season and has 23 in 18 games this term. Arsenala nd Chelsea have also been linked.
Meanwhile, journalist Fabrizio Romano claims there is a gentleman's agreement between Amorim and Sporting not to sign any of their players this January.
