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Man United’s January midfield plans uncertain as Liverpool, Man City and Chelsea enter fray

Rising demand for midfield control

In a season framed by shifting priorities and tactical reinventions, Man Utd find themselves heading into a midfield transfer battle that promises to define their long term structure. The search for a dominant No6 has gathered momentum, shaped by Ruben Amorim’s insistence that the position is central to what he wants his side to become. It is a simple need, although the market surrounding it is anything but.

Premier League rivals target same midfield profiles

Man Utd are operating in a landscape where Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester City are also seeking similar midfield attributes. Reports suggest United made enquiries for Brighton’s Carlos Baleba and Atletico Madrid’s Conor Gallagher last summer, two players who fit the profile of what Amorim values. A revisit to those options is possible, although the field is wide.

Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton and Wolves’ Joao Gomes sit among those being monitored.

Anderson and Wharton have made the England squad for World Cup qualifiers against Serbia and Albania, while Gomes has impressed in spite of a challenging Wolves campaign. It leaves United juggling quality, availability and cost, while knowing each target brings its own complications.

Fear of bidding wars shapes strategy

After spending more than £200million last summer, the club are wary of being dragged into a bidding war involving multiple Premier League rivals. According to the Daily Mail, there is a preference to secure a signing before the World Cup in June, an attempt to avoid inflated valuations once the tournament begins. There is acknowledgement that January may offer opportunities, although deals for Gallagher, Wharton and Anderson would be difficult mid-season.

Managing the current squad

Alongside recruitment, the issue of wages remains prominent. United are working to trim their bill and are reluctant to extend Casemiro’s contract beyond next summer. The Brazilian has started the last five league games under Amorim and performed well, but at 33, the manager is seeking a younger and more mobile presence to anchor his midfield for years to come.