There’s no denying that the Manchester United midfield department is the area of the pitch that has been the subject of most of the hierarchy’s recruitment efforts.
A whole host of players have been touted with moves to Old Trafford, with the likes of Ruben Neves, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Carlos Baleba all constantly mentioned.
However, as of yet, no deal has been completed, with Michael Carrick potentially the beneficiary of the investment that could come his way before the window closes.
Man United manager Michael Carrick
It’s not the only area of the pitch which is being targeted for potential reinforcements, with the attacking department also one that could be bolstered in due course.
As a result, numerous players have been touted with a move to the Theatre of Dreams, which could see the board invest a pretty penny in any possible new addition.
Man Utd seriously interested in move for £65m attacker
Over the last couple of weeks, United have been one of multiple Premier League sides touted with a move to sign RB Leipzig sensation Yan Diomande this window.
The Ivorian has been in phenomenal form, as seen by his tally of six goals and two assists in his 16 Bundesliga appearances, with Liverpool also in the race for his signature.
yan-diomande-rb-leipzig-man-city
However, it now appears highly unlikely that the youngster will leave his current side this winter, with the German outfit placing a £90m asking price on his head at present.
As a result, other options are now being considered by the Red Devils board, which has led to Real Sociedad star Mikel Oyarzabal emerging on their shortlist this January.
According to FootballTransfers, Carrick’s men hold a serious interest in landing the Spanish attacker, who has nine goal contributions in 17 LaLiga games this campaign.
They also state that the 28-year-old currently has a €75m (£65m) release clause in his contract and won’t budge on such a fee, with United having to pay a small fortune for his signature.
Why Oyarzabal would be Mbeumo 2.0 for United
Spending big on a new attacker hasn’t alien to United in recent months, as seen in the summer transfer window, with over £200m invested into the club’s forward line.
Bryan Mbeumo was just one of the additions made during such a spending spree, subsequently joining from Brentford for a reported £71m including add-ons.
Amad-Bryan-Mbeumo-Man-Utd
The Cameroonian international has made an immediate impact to start at Old Trafford, as seen by his tally of seven league goals this season - the most of any player in the squad.
However, he’s often been asked to operate in numerous positions, including a number ten position in now departed manager Ruben Amorim’s infamous 3-4-2-1 system.
The 26-year-old has even operated as a central striker at times, something which Oyarzabal has also been forced to do in numerous matches this campaign.
The Spaniard, who’s primarily a left-winger, has featured in the number nine role over recent weeks - which no doubt has helped him improve his goalscoring tally.
Mikel-oyarzabal-real-sociedad
However, it remains to be seen if the Red Devils will fork out the aforementioned transfer fee, but it could allow them to land another top-level attacker in the process.
His goalscoring stats show one side to his impressive performances, but his underlying figures further reaffirm his sensational nature within the final third this campaign.
Oyarzabal, who’s been dubbed a “living legend” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has registered 3.1 shots per 90 this campaign, whilst directing 40% of his efforts on target.
Such tallies showcase the Spaniard’s ability to cause chaos within the final third, often being Sociedad’s most likely player to find the back of the net in LaLiga.
Mikel Oyarzabal - LaLiga stats (2025/26)
Statistics (per 90)
Games played
Goals & assists
Shots taken
Shot on target accuracy
Chances created
Dribble success
Fouls won
Crosses completed
Touches in 18-yard box
Stats via FotMob
He’s also completed 58% of the dribbles he’s attempted, whilst creating 1.6 chances per 90 in the process - which could hand Mbeumo the chance to improve his own tallies.
His creativity and goal-scoring ability in attacking areas mirror that of the Cameroonian, which could allow for a new iconic partnership to be made in the near future.
Sheraldo Becker Mikel Oyarzabal Real Sociedad
Oyarzabal’s talents are further reflected in his 26% cross success rate, whilst also registering 5.6 touches in the opposition box per 90 - which could make him a true all-round threat to other sides in the Premier League.
The £65m fee would present yet another huge statement of intent from the Red Devils hierarchy, with Carrick undoubtedly being backed in his quest for success at Old Trafford.
If any move does materialise, and he emulates the immediate success of Mbeumo, it could be yet another incredible piece of business that could lead the Red Devils to further glory in the future.
Ruben Neves Related
[Better signing than Neves: Man Utd exploring move for "monster" midfielder](https://www.footballfancast.com/better-signing-than-neves-man-utd-exploring-move-for-wilfred-ndidi/ "Better signing than Neves: Man Utd exploring move for "monster" midfielder")
Manchester United have set their sights on another midfielder alongside Ruben Neves.