Manchester United have set their stall out for the January transfer window but recent events should see them reverse their stance
Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick
Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick(Image: James Gill - Danehouse/Getty Images)
View 2 Images
Whether it be Ruben Amorim or Michael Carrick in the Old Trafford hotseat, Manchester United have been unflinching in regards their January transfer window stance. It is understood the Reds do not want to make significant purchases in the mid-season market because their long-term plan and vision for the club remains.
It is a rather uninspiring stance for the club to take especially when there is still plenty to play for and gaps in the current squad. United also appear adamant to keep players who do not have a long-term future at Old Trafford. Joshua Zirkzee was the subject of interest from AS Roma, but they were told no.
With Champions League qualification still up for grabs, there should be an incentive for the Reds' board to dip back into their vault and sign players who could make all the difference. The money was available to sign Antoine Semenyo if they had won the race for him.
However, it was locked away again when he chose Manchester City. But recent events at a Premier League rival prove why United should once reverse their stance in January and delve into the market. On Tuesday morning, reports in south London claimed Jean-Philippe Mateta had informed Crystal Palace he wished to leave.
Mateta is believed to want a January transfer and having spoken to Aston Villa and Juventus, his mind is made up. United should be looking into the possibility of signing Mateta this winter.
Carrick played Bryan Mbeumo in the centre-forward role on Saturday and he did well. Benjamin Sesko has been the lone option in this position for too long and it is clear United need to provide him with competition. While Mbeumo can clearly play as a striker, he is not someone who could provide Sesko with that mentorship he needs to develop his game. Mateta would though.
Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta
Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta(Image: Sebastian Frej/Getty Images)
View 2 Images
The 28-year-old has already shown he can score consistently in the Premier League and is on his way to another double-figure campaign in the English top flight for the third season running. Mateta is at an age where he can provide experience to the forward line while also being a safe option to add goals to the squad.
United have been clear on their desire to stick to the long-term plan and not make hasty decisions based on temporary form. Mateta's arrival would not only benefit Carrick though, but also whoever becomes the permanent head coach in the summer.
Whatever happens at the end of the season, United will need to sign another striker so why not tick that box in January? This is a golden opportunity for the Reds and it should not be passed up.