Ruben Amorim’s Man United January Transfer Priority ‘Revealed’ but Deal for Leading Target ‘is on Hold’

By Okafor Joseph Afam | December 6, 2024

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has reportedly prioritized signing a new forward during the January transfer window as he seeks to bolster his attacking options at Old Trafford.

Since his appointment, Amorim has overseen four games, securing two wins, one draw, and one loss. His first defeat came in a 2-0 loss to Arsenal on Wednesday night in the Premier League. Despite a solid defensive performance for much of the match, United conceded two goals from corners and lacked an attacking spark to trouble the Gunners’ defense.

Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee have both shown glimpses of quality under Amorim, each netting braces since his arrival. However, the Portuguese manager is keen to bring in an additional striker to provide more firepower and competition upfront.

Viktor Gyökeres: The Top Target

According to The Mirror, Amorim’s primary target for January is Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyökeres. However, a mid-season move for the Swedish international is proving to be highly complicated.

Portuguese outlet A Bola reports that Manchester United are leading the race for Gyökeres, but Sporting are adamant about holding onto their star player unless his €100 million (£83 million) release clause is met. While the 26-year-old forward has been in scintillating form, scoring 25 goals in 22 matches this season, it is understood that Sporting might be more willing to negotiate a lower fee next summer.

If a January deal cannot be struck, Amorim may have to delay his pursuit of Gyökeres, which would be a setback for United’s short-term ambitions.

Alternative Options: Randal Kolo Muani

In light of the challenges surrounding Gyökeres, United have also been linked with a potential loan move for Paris Saint-Germain’s Randal Kolo Muani. The French international has struggled for form this season, managing just two goals and one assist in 13 appearances for PSG. A short-term deal could offer United a stopgap solution, though much depends on the club’s decision regarding Zirkzee.

The Zirkzee Conundrum

Zirkzee, who scored twice in United’s 4-0 thrashing of Everton last weekend, has yet to fully convince Amorim of his long-term value to the team. Reports suggest the Dutch striker may be offloaded, with a return to Serie A being a possibility. Amorim’s decision on Zirkzee could play a pivotal role in determining whether United explore a temporary deal for Kolo Muani.

Amorim’s Vision Taking Shape

Amorim has experimented with various attacking combinations since taking charge and believes he is close to identifying his best lineup. Speaking in a press conference on Friday, the manager shared his thoughts:

“More or less [I am close to knowing my best line-up], yes. You have an idea, but then you have the problem of players returning without training and then you have to manage the load. So you also have the same problem.

“But then you have to imagine and understand what kind of player you have. Bruno Fernandes, you feel it, against Arsenal, in the end, he was a little bit tired, but you know he is going to recover very well. Manuel Ugarte, I’ve known for so long; I know that he needs sometimes a little bit more time.

“So we are in that process, to know the players and trying to manage that, but we’re getting closer to an idea, yes.”

Højlund, who was rested against Everton, returned to the starting XI against Arsenal, and Amorim will now have to decide whether the Danish striker starts again against Nottingham Forest on Saturday.

Conclusion

Amorim’s determination to strengthen his squad highlights his ambition to restore Manchester United’s competitive edge. While a January deal for Gyökeres may be challenging, alternative solutions such as a loan move for Kolo Muani could address the team’s immediate needs. United fans will be eager to see how the January transfer window unfolds as Amorim continues to shape his vision for the club.

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