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Manchester United are looking to strengthen their squad in January, with a new striker and left-back among the priorities for director of football Jason Wilcox.
The Red Devils have endured a difficult start to the campaign under Michael Carrick, although Tuesday's dramatic Champions League victory over Roma provided a much-needed boost ahead of Sunday's Premier League clash with Aston Villa.
United's failure to bring in another centre-forward during the summer has become increasingly problematic, particularly following Benjamin Sesko's injury, but the performances of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo have kept the attack afloat.
Bryan Mbeumo calls for Man Utd to build on Roma victory
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United produced one of their most memorable performances of the season against Roma, overturning a two-goal deficit to secure a 3-2 victory at Old Trafford.
Cunha was the hero with two goals, while Mbeumo also came agonisingly close to scoring, striking both posts during a remarkable second-half turnaround that offered supporters renewed optimism.
Speaking to United Review ahead of the Villa game, the Cameroon international acknowledged that his side still have plenty of work to do.
"Yeah, obviously football can change really quickly," Mbeumo said.
"Obviously, we have faced a not great one [period] but what we want is to come back and we can do our best and, yeah, meet the expectation we had at the start of this season."
The former Brentford attacker also highlighted the importance of maintaining momentum before the November international break.
United remain short of options through the middle.
Sesko's injury has further exposed the decision not to recruit another specialist striker in the summer, with Carrick now facing the prospect of relying on makeshift attacking combinations.
That could make a January addition particularly important, and United have reportedly been in contact with the representatives of an exciting young Brazilian forward.
Vitor Roque's agent confirms Man Utd interest ahead of January
Palmeiras' Vitor Roque celebrates scoring their first goal
Palmeiras' Vitor Roque celebrates scoring their first goal
According to Brazilian outlet Bolavip, via Sport Witness, Manchester United are among several European clubs exploring a potential move for Palmeiras striker Vitor Roque.
The 21-year-old has revived his career since returning to Brazil from Barcelona in February 2025, having previously struggled to establish himself in Spain.
Roque has recorded 29 goals and eight assists in 96 appearances for Palmeiras, with his performances attracting renewed attention from the Premier League.
His representative, André Cury, has been in contact with interested clubs, including United, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur, as preparations begin for the January transfer window.
Speaking about the growing competition for his client's signature, Cury confirmed: "There are many clubs in Europe interested in Vitor."
Palmeiras want at least €50m (£44m) before considering offers, with Roque under contract until December 2029. Barcelona also retain a 20 per cent share of his economic rights, meaning Palmeiras have an additional incentive to negotiate the highest possible fee.
Man Utd also pursuing Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde
FC Barcelona's Alejandro Balde in action
FC Barcelona's Alejandro Balde in action
While a new striker could provide Carrick with much-needed depth in attack, United are also exploring ways to strengthen their defence.
As previously reported by Football FanCast, the Red Devils have been involved in discussions over a potential move for Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde.
The 23-year-old is considering leaving the Camp Nou after struggling for regular opportunities under Hansi Flick, with his agent Jorge Mendes exploring a possible Premier League switch.
Barcelona are prepared to entertain offers of approximately €40m (£33m), while a loan arrangement containing an option to buy could also be considered.
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United's interest comes amid ongoing fitness concerns surrounding Luke Shaw and Patrick Dorgu, leaving Carrick without consistent availability on the left side of his defence.