The unmistakable sound of speculation was heard across the land when the clock ticked over to signal the start of the January transfer window, with Manchester United manoeuvred front and centre by mainstream media.
Depending on who you get your news from, the 20-time English champions could be lining up ambitious moves for three or four arrivals.
However, in the subtle tones of Mick Hucknall, the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules have ensured that money is indeed too tight to mention in the North West.
Ruben Amorim is undoubtedly keen to bolster his squad with suitable additions while waving goodbye to several first-team players with no future in his ambitious vision.
But, two decades of Glazer mismanagement makes it an awkward task to pursue targets without a shrewd approach from this best-in-class Ineos team.
A left-sided full-back remains a mandatory priority for everybody within the club, and despite the financial dilemma at play, there is hope of concluding a deal in the coming weeks.
Manchester sources close to the Theatre of Red have confirmed a shortlist of desired names to fill this undeniable void, and we have profiled three of them and their suitability for Amorim’s system.
Nuno Mendes
22-year-old Nuno Mendes is one of European football’s most exciting talents, delivering a regular collection of notable Ligue 1 performances for domestic giants Paris Saint-Germain.
A former youth product of Sporting Lisbon, the Sintra man operates as an attacking left-sided full-back with notable pace, skill and spacial awareness beyond his years.
United are long-time admirers, and although he has featured regularly throughout the Parisians campaign, RMC Sport journalist Arthur Perrot has confirmed a breakdown in contractual talks between the player and club via Twitch.
His attacking threat ranks amongst the best on the continent, and his age profile ticks the boxes for a demanding Ineos backroom team. Speculation suggests he is United’s number-one target to replace Luke Shaw, and the figures go a long way towards understanding why.
| Last 365 days versus Big 5 Leagues, UCL & UEL | Per 90 minutes | Percentile |
| Passes attempted | 78.62 | 97 |
| Pass completion % | 84.8% | 83 |
| Progressive passes | 7.29 | 97 |
| Progressive carries | 3.31 | 91 |
| Successful take-ons | 1.75 | 96 |
| Tackles | 2.09 | 58 |
| Interceptions | 1.22 | 80 |
| Blocks | 1.26 | 61 |
Milos Kerkez
At 21, Milos Kerkez is enjoying a promising campaign for Bournemouth, featuring across every outing en route to their rise into the European conversation.
Like Mendes, the Hungarian International has generated attention across the major European leagues, with German kingpins Bayern Munich considering their options.
United have previously sent feelers to the Cherries, with conversations about a potential summer move breaking down because of Ineos chiefs prioritising the signing of Leny Yoro.
His age, talent and ceiling for growth have made him an option of considerable interest across the Premier League, with Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal known admirers.
While not as menacing as Mendes, the Bournemouth star offers plenty on either side of the transition and is not playing in a domestic powerhouse.
| Last 365 days versus Big 5 Leagues, UCL & UEL | Per 90 minutes | Percentile |
| Passes attempted | 42.83 | 20 |
| Pass completion % | 77% | 43 |
| Progressive passes | 3.94 | 58 |
| Progressive carries | 2.61 | 76 |
| Successful take-ons | 0.48 | 34 |
| Tackles | 1.44 | 17 |
| Interceptions | 1.10 | 70 |
| Blocks | 1.03 | 40 |
Federico Dimarco
At 27, Inter Milan star Federico Dimarco presents an alternative option for the Reds.
The Italian international has become a mainstay within the Serie A side, supplying an experienced, trustworthy presence on the flank.
Eight goals in 21 appearances have highlighted his attacking credentials throughout 2024-25 and also identified his ability to play higher up the field if required.
Amorim is a long-term admirer of the Milan native, and although La Beneamata are keen to retain his services, the prospect of a move to England is said to be an appeal.
His attributes are tailor-made for the division despite his height, and his physicality is matched by his vision, awareness and pace.
| Last 365 days versus Big 5 Leagues, UCL & UEL | Per 90 minutes | Percentile |
| Passes attempted | 52.26 | 51 |
| Pass completion % | 76.3% | 38 |
| Progressive passes | 3.28 | 34 |
| Progressive carries | 1.80 | 45 |
| Successful take-ons | 0.24 | 10 |
| Tackles | 1.07 | 3 |
| Interceptions | 0.59 | 16 |
| Blocks | 0.83 | 17 |
Each player offers a unique attribute that could supply an immediate weapon on the left side of this Manchester United side.
Despite the most underwhelming campaign, the allure of a move to the Theatre of Dreams remains a notable draw for many of the game’s brightest talents.
Which of the three would you prefer the club to pursue?
Let us know in the comments or across our socials.
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