Manchester United are reportedly preparing January transfer bids after Michael Carrick got off to a brilliant start at Old Trafford with a thumping win over Manchester City
Amie Wilson and Neil Docking
07:08, 19 Jan 2026
Michael Carrick has got off to a superb start at Manchester United
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Michael Carrick has got off to a superb start at Manchester United(Image: Manchester United via Getty Images)
Manchester United enjoyed a brilliant weekend under the guidance of new interim manager Michael Carrick, as they dismantled Manchester City.
Goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu secured a comfortable 2-0 victory for United against their bitter rivals. The Manchester City was a one-sided affair with Pep Guardiola's team lucky to escape with only a two-goal defeat. Attention now shifts to their upcoming Premier League clash against table toppers Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.
In addition to preparing his squad for this fixture, Carrick is also keeping an eye on the ongoing transfer window. Clubs have just two more weeks to finalise their mid-season dealings. While no new faces have arrived at United yet, the club continues to be linked with potential transfers in and out. Here's all the latest news from Old Trafford.
Joao Gomes
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Manchester United have been linked with a January move for Joao Gomes(Image: Getty Images)
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Premier League midfielder on United's radar
United are said to be monitoring Wolves star Joao Gomes as they continue their search for midfield reinforcements, reports the Mirror.
CaughtOffside reports the club have been tracking the 24-year-old player since the summer, with scouting reports being favourable.
A man in a black long-sleeved shirt raises his fist in celebration on a sports field, with a blurred background indicating a crowd.
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(Image: Visionhaus/Getty Images)
However, it's suggested the cost could be a deciding factor in any move, with Wolves having slapped a £43million price tag on Gomes.
United aren't the only ones interested, with Napoli, Atletico Madrid, and Crystal Palace all considering the midfielder, while Liverpool have reportedly decided not to pursue a move.
A loan with an obligation to buy is suggested as the most feasible option in the current transfer window, with a permanent move more likely if he transfers in the summer.
Carrick could swoop for old favourite
Middlesbrough player Hayden Hackney
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Middlesbrough player Hayden Hackney(Image: )
United have been linked with Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, which would reunite him with his former manager Michael Carrick.
TEAMtalk reports Carrick is a big fan of the player and United are eager to bolster their midfield options. However, any move for Hackney could face stiff opposition from the Championship club.
Currently sitting second in the league, they won't want to jeopardise their promotion hopes by selling one of their key players.
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Boro have reportedly slapped a club record £30m price tag on the midfielder. It's understood that the club are reluctant to sell and don't anticipate anyone meeting their valuation.
Tottenham and Everton are also said to be interested.