Manchester United could be set for a busy January transfer window, with as many as six players potentially heading for the exit as Ruben Amorim reshapes his squad.
The Portuguese manager has begun to steady the ship at Old Trafford, with United pushing towards the top four. However, several players are struggling for minutes, and changes are expected once the Africa Cup of Nations reaches its conclusion in mid-January.
Club officials are understood to be reluctant to sanction senior departures before the Afcon final on January 18, but movement is expected before the window closes. Here are six United players who could be on the move.
Kobbie Mainoo
Despite featuring in last year’s European Championship final, the 20-year-old midfielder has yet to start a Premier League game this season. Amorim has preferred alternative midfield options, leaving Mainoo’s role uncertain.
With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, regular football could be crucial for his international ambitions. United may also consider a sale as pure profit from an academy graduate would help fund new signings. Napoli are currently believed to be the most serious suitors, with Chelsea also monitoring the situation.
Joshua Zirkzee
The Dutch striker has endured a difficult spell in England, scoring just four Premier League goals in 43 appearances since arriving in a £36.5m move. While he has struggled to settle, his reputation in Italy remains strong following his time at Bologna.
Roma are reportedly interested in a loan deal that includes an obligation to buy at the end of the season. Zirkzee is open to the move, though United are expected to delay any decision until after Afcon due to squad depth concerns.
Tyrell Malacia
Malacia is the last remaining member of the so-called “Bomb Squad” that was told to find new clubs in the summer. Injury problems and limited opportunities have restricted the left-back to just two minutes of action this season.
The 26-year-old returned to training in September, but with his contract set to expire in six months, United are open to either a loan or permanent transfer in January.
Harry Amass
The 18-year-old defender has been on loan at Sheffield Wednesday, where he has started regularly in the Championship. While Wednesday are keen to extend the loan, interest from other clubs could complicate matters.
A short-term return to United’s first team looks unlikely, and another loan move appears the most realistic outcome for Amass during the second half of the season.
Toby Collyer
United recently recalled Collyer from his loan spell at West Brom after an underwhelming stint that included only three league starts. A calf injury cut his time short, and the club have decided against sending him back.
While he could remain as midfield cover, several Championship clubs are reportedly ready to offer him a fresh loan opportunity if United approve a move.
Diego Leon
The highly rated left-back arrived from Paraguay in a deal worth up to £7m but is still adapting to English football. Leon is already a senior international but has yet to feature for United’s first team.
The club are considering whether a January loan would accelerate his development or if remaining within the youth setup for a few more months would be more beneficial.
As Amorim continues to mould his squad, January could mark a pivotal moment for several United players seeking regular football or a fresh start elsewhere.
