Michael Carrick has enjoyed an excellent start to life in the Man Utd dugout.placeholder image
Michael Carrick has enjoyed an excellent start to life in the Man Utd dugout. | Getty Images
Manchester United could look to supercharge their Champions League push with a couple of high-profile signings in the final stages of the January window.
The former England midfielder has instantly had a positive impact on the team, recording wins over the top two sides in the country, in matches that were essentially viewed as free hits before kick-off. They outclassed bitter rivals Manchester City in a fairly one-sided 2-0 win at Old Trafford and went on to stun title favourites Arsenal by securing a 3-2 win at the Emirates.
Suddenly Champions League qualification feels possible for the Red Devils, particularly if they can bolster their squad in the final few days of the window. With that in mind, we assess who Carrick could still sign before deadline day, based on the latest rumours.
Man Utd target £40m Patrick Dorgu replacement
Patrick Dorgu’s performances have been one of the main feel-good stories for Manchester United supporters in recent weeks. The Danish youngster has scored in both matches under Carrick and has dazzled with two consecutive standout displays.
However, he now faces a number of weeks out with a hamstring injury, leaving Carrick to figure out how to fill the hole on the flank left by the 21-year-old’s absence. With no truly natural replacement in the side for either a true left winger or an attacking left wing-back, United could be in the market for a player to fill the void in the short-term while also strengthening the defence for years to come. They’ve long been linked with Eintracht Frankfurt star Nathaniel Brown, and according to TEAMtalk, sent scouts to watch the German international in action on Wednesday night.
The 22-year-old, who is regarded as one of Europe’s best young left-backs, is believed to be valued at around £40m, with Frankfurt braced for significant Premier League interest. Most stories on the subject suggest that United would prefer to wait until the summer to make a move, but desperation could force them to reconsider their stance in the coming days - and Brown is an impressive talent.
Man Utd plot move for Chelsea winger
Mail Online also reports that Manchester United are weighing up a move for promising Chelsea winger Tyrique George.
Once regarded as one of the most exciting attacking prospects in the Blues’ academy, the 19-year-old winger has found opportunities limited this season amid the presence of players like Estevao, Pedro Neto, Jamie Gittens and ex-United man Alejandro Garnacho.
George is understood to be available for transfer, either on loan or on a permanent basis, having not made a league appearance since a 2-1 loss to Sunderland in October. United poached Ayden Heaven from Arsenal and fast-tracked his progress into the senior team with great success, and could potentially see George following a similar trajectory at Old Trafford. The England age group international can also play up front, which could help with depth issues there.
Continue Reading