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Man Utd news: Michael Carrick eyes £26m transfer as Andre Onana set for surprise return

Manchester United are weighing up moves as the January transfer window draws to a close with Michael Carrick hoping to boost his side's hopes of a top four finish

Stephen Killen Senior Sports Content Creator and Neil Docking

09:11, 28 Jan 2026Updated 09:14, 28 Jan 2026

Michael Carrick

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The Michael Carrick era at Manchester United is about to begin(Image: Manchester United via Getty Images)

Manchester United are currently on a roll, having enjoyed an impressive run since Michael Carrick took over as interim manager.

With two victories against Premier League title contenders under their belt, the Red Devils now find themselves in the Champions League spots and looking to climb even higher. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the managerial position at Old Trafford, which could lead to a quiet transfer window despite Carrick's strong start, rumours continue to swirl.

Speculation is rife at the Theatre of Dreams, with Chelsea talisman Cole Palmer among those linked with a move. For the ex-Middlesbrough boss and his team, the priority for the rest of the season will be to maintain their current form and keep their top four rivals at arm's length. Here's all the latest news from Old Trafford.

Manchester United are reportedly targeting Mohamed Kader Meite.

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Manchester United are reportedly targeting Mohamed Kader Meite(Image: Photo by DAMIEN MEYER / AFP via Getty Images)

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United may ramp up pursuit of Kader Meite

The Guardian reports United are contemplating intensifying their interest in Kader Meite.

It's suggested the Red Devils have been in discussions with the 18-year-old's representatives about a potential transfer. Saudi Pro League heavyweights Al-Hilal are also reportedly keen on the Rennes forward.

Meite, a France under-21 international, is believed to command a fee in the region of £26m. He still has two-and-a-half years left on his current contract with the Ligue 1 outfit.

He's netted three goals and provided two assists in 17 appearances in the French top flight, and has already caught the eye of Europe's elite clubs, with Paris Saint-Germain also rumoured to be interested. Reports suggest Crystal Palace and Chelsea are also monitoring his progress.

Meite's career has skyrocketed since making his debut as a 17-year-old in November 2024, reports the Mirror.

Onana in line for return

Andre Onana has suffered a new low after being left out of Cameroon's AFCON squad

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Manchester United flop Andre Onana(Image: (Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images))

In other news, goalkeeper Andre Onana is reportedly on his way out of Old Trafford, having been replaced by Senne Lammens as United's first-choice keeper.

The Daily Mail reports the Cameroon international's representatives have been in discussions with Inter Milan about a potential return.

Onana moved to United from the Serie A heavyweights for £47m after impressing at the San Siro during their run to the Champions League final in 2023.

Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick celebrates after beating Arsenal

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Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick celebrates after beating Arsenal(Image: Marc Atkins/Getty Images)

But he was disastrous between the posts for United and is currently on loan at Trabzonspor in the Turkish Super Lig, after he made the move following the arrival of Lammens as Ruben Amorim reshuffled his goalkeeping ranks.

The report suggests that while the 29-year-old hasn't given up on his United career, he is expected to leave permanently as the opportunity to replace Yann Sommer arises.

Onana's performances in Turkey have reportedly piqued Inter's interest, with the keeper helping Trabzonspor to just three losses in 16 matches.

Zirkzee attracting Premier League interest

Joshua Zirkzee before a Manchester United game

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Manchester United flop Joshua Zirkzee(Image: Ben Roberts - Danehouse/Getty Images)

According to teamTALK, Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee has caught the attention of Premier League sides Crystal Palace and Tottenham.

The Dutch player's time on the pitch has been limited this season due to the arrivals of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko.

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United are reportedly hesitant to approve a sale and weaken their squad mid-season, particularly as they're currently in a strong position for Champions League qualification, despite the £37m flop's limited impact at Old Trafford.

Zirkzee, 24, has scored just nine goals and provided four assists in 65 appearances, leading to growing speculation about his future, with a return to Serie A frequently suggested.

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