Ruben Amorim has played down the possibility of Manchester United making any signings during the January transfer window, insisting there have been no discussions about strengthening the squad.
Despite United’s injury problems and absences due to the Africa Cup of Nations, the Portuguese manager suggested the club does not have the financial flexibility to do business this month after spending more than £225 million during the summer.
Manchester United currently sit sixth in the Premier League table, level on points with fifth-placed Chelsea — a position that would likely secure qualification for next season’s Champions League.
Speaking ahead of Sunday’s trip to Leeds United, Amorim made it clear that no changes to the squad are expected in January.
“The transfer window is not going to change,” Amorim said. “We have no conversations at this moment to change the squad. There is a process and an idea that will continue.”
He also dismissed speculation about potential departures, confirming that no player has approached him about leaving the club. Joshua Zirkzee, who has been linked with a move to Roma, has not requested an exit.
“No,” Amorim said when asked if Zirkzee had spoken to him. “I don’t expect players to come to me to ask anything.”
United face Leeds United at Elland Road in one of English football’s fiercest rivalries. Leeds are unbeaten in six matches and have not lost to United at home since September 2002, setting the stage for a hostile atmosphere.
Amorim acknowledged the significance of the fixture but stressed that every Premier League match presents a major challenge.
“I know it’s a big derby and a great environment,” he said. “But every game in the Premier League is tough. When you play for Manchester United, you have to be ready for everything.”
The United boss has recently handed debuts to young players including Jack Fletcher, Shea Lacey and 17-year-old Bendito Mantato. With several senior players still unavailable, the trio could again be involved against Leeds.
“They need to be ready,” Amorim added. “It’s a hostile environment, but they have to experience it. I will put out a team that is ready to cope and try to win the game.”
With a demanding run of fixtures ahead, United’s depth will be tested as they aim to remain firmly in the race for Champions League qualification.
