Manchester United have been linked with a number of players in the January transfer window as interim manager Michael Carrick settles into his role at Old Trafford
Kobbie Mainoo looks on
Kobbie Mainoo has seen limited gametime at Manchester United(Image: CameraSport via Getty Images)
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Michael Carrick has taken the reins at Old Trafford as interim head coach for the rest of the season, but it's uncertain whether the club will provide him with funds in the Januarytransfer window. The 44-year-old has stepped into the role as a temporary replacement for Ruben Amorim.
His primary responsibility will be to steer the Red Devils towards the best possible Premier League position by May, but Carrick may also oversee player transfers this month. While Amorim had previously revealed that there were no plans to alter his squad prior to his departure, Carrick's perspective might differ.
Given his long-standing association with the club, he undoubtedly understands what Manchester United currently needs, and he might approach the board for new talent accordingly. With this in mind, the MEN examines some of the players rumoured to be joining or leaving Old Trafford...
The chase for the 'new Moises Caicedo'
United have been linked with LDU Quito's Ederson Castillo, as they strategise for the future of their ageing midfield. Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro have been the preferred duo this season, achieving partial success, reports the Mirror.
However, with Fernandes arguably better suited to a more forward role, and Casemiro's future at the club beyond 2025/26 uncertain, United may look to bring in new talent. One name that has recently emerged is Castillo, a 17-year-old prodigy billed as 'the new Moises Caicedo', who is rumoured to be linked with a £4million move to the north west.
United are not the only European giants keeping an eye on the Ecuadorian's situation, however. Reports suggest that Barcelona have offered Castillo a trial at youth level, with the possibility of a permanent deal if he impresses. As such, United may need to act swiftly to secure a deal for the midfielder.
Ederson Castillo smiles
Manchester United are reportedly eyeing a move for Ederson Castillo(Image: LDU Youth Academy)
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A 'deadline' for Kobbie Mainoo
It is understood that Kobbie Mainoo is currently frustrated with his lack of playing time at Manchester United, as Napoli lead the chase to secure the 20-year-old on loan. The midfielder started just one match for his current club under Amorim this season, which was a disappointing Carabao Cup exit to Grimsby Town via penalties.
While Darren Fletcher gave Mainoo an opportunity to shine during United's FA Cup defeat to Brighton at the weekend, it remains unclear what Carrick's plans for the young player are. However, the interim head coach would do well to engage with Mainoo soon, as the January transfer window heats up.
Kobbie Mainoo runs
Kobbie Mainoo has been linked with a loan move(Image: Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA, Getty Images)
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It's understood that Mainoo may seek opportunities elsewhere if his playing time at Old Trafford doesn't improve. With the February 2 deadline just weeks away, Carrick might need to focus on the player's development, whether that's at United or elsewhere.
A Karim Adeyemi twist
BILD recently reported that Manchester United have had informal discussions with Karim Adeyemi, whose future at Borussia Dortmund is uncertain. However, fresh reports from Teamtalk suggest that the 23-year-old isn't a top priority and is seen more as a short-term solution.
Karim Adeyemi looks on
Karim Adeyemi has been linked with Manchester United(Image: Getty Images)
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Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur have also been linked with the German recently, potentially setting the stage for a fierce bidding war for one of the Bundesliga's most sought-after talents.