We bring you the latest Manchester United transfer news and rumours as the January window approaches and Ruben Amorim looks to strengthen his squad
Head Coach Ruben Amorim of Manchester United speaks during a press conference at Carrington Training Ground on August 15, 2025 in Manchester, England.
Ruben Amorim has insisted 'the club comes first'(Image: Ash Donelon, Manchester United via Getty Images)
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With just over a month to go until the January transfer window, Manchester United are set to ramp up their transfer activity.
Ruben Amorim has managed to steady things at Old Trafford when it seemed increasingly likely that he might be sacked before reaching his anniversary with the club.
However, the Portuguese head coach is known for his practical approach and will undoubtedly be considering ways to strengthen his squad as they look to secure a spot in next season's Champions League.
That has led to United being linked with several midfielders in the past week, including Wolves' Joao Gomes, Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson and Brighton's Carlos Baleba.
Their interest reportedly also extends to forwards, particularly Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo, who is one of the biggest names being linked with a potential January transfer. Now, we bring you two recent developments involving United, in terms of both potential arrivals and departures.
Semenyo transfer plan
Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo during the Premier League match between Bournemouth and Fulham at Vitality Stadium on October 3, 2025 in Bournemouth, England.
Antoine Semenyo's shirt number is 24 at Bournemouth(Image: CameraSport via Getty Images)
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United may look to boost their chances of signing Semenyo in the January transfer window in a creative way. The 25-year-old forward has emerged as one of United's main transfer targets, with the club eager to sign the Ghanaian this winter.
Should United trigger Semenyo's reported £65million release clause, one factor might help persuade him to choose them ahead of rival clubs, including Tottenham and Liverpool. Throughout his three years with Bournemouth, Semenyo has worn the No.24 shirt, which United could make available to him as a goodwill gesture.
The number currently belongs to goalkeeper Andre Onana, who is spending the remainder of the campaign on loan at Trabzonspor. However, with Onana's long-term future at Old Trafford uncertain beyond that, United will have no issue with handing the number over to one of the most sought-after players in the league.
Amorim’s Mainoo verdict
Kobbie Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee of Manchester United celebrate during the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Phase MD7 match between Manchester United and Rangers FC at Old Trafford on January 23, 2025 in Manchester, England.
Kobbie Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee could be heading for the exit door(Image: 2025 Marc Atkins - Getty Images)
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Amorim has refused to dismiss the possibility of Kobbie Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee leaving in January, saying the club's needs must take precedence. Neither player has started a game in the Premier League this season, leading to speculation that they could leave in order to boost their own chances of being selected for this summer’s World Cup.
But the head coach emphasised that while he understands their position, he will only sanction moves if they benefit United. "I was a football player," he explained. "I understand everything, and I want to help my players in every situation.
"I understand the frustration of some players, seeing the World Cup is there. I know what it means. But the first thing is that the club comes first. If I can help the club and the players, I will be happy. If not, I have to think about the team."