Manchester United's 2023-24 season has been a mix of highs and lows under new manager Ruben Amorim, with defensive vulnerabilities and inconsistency in crucial matches hindering their progress. Despite significant summer investments, including the arrivals of Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro, the team has struggled with defensive solidity, particularly highlighted by their dramatic 4-3 exit in the Carabao Cup against Tottenham Hotspur. This result exposed the team's ongoing issues in key defensive areas, even with high-profile signings aimed at strengthening the backline.
Amorim's tactical setup, particularly his preferred 3-4-3 formation, requires depth at wing-back and stability at centre-back—positions where United have struggled to find consistency. With the January transfer window approaching, the club is expected to focus on addressing these weaknesses. Financial flexibility generated through potential player sales could provide the funds necessary for Manchester United to strengthen their squad and make a push for higher league positions in the second half of the season.
Potential Transfer Targets for January
Here are three players that Manchester United could target in the upcoming January transfer window to address their defensive and midfield concerns:
1. Ederson (Atalanta)
One of Manchester United's top targets for the winter window is Ederson, the Brazilian midfielder currently playing for Serie A club Atalanta. The 25-year-old has impressed many with his performances in Italy, especially during Atalanta's successful Europa League campaign. Known for his work rate, energy, and excellent passing range, Ederson could bring much-needed creativity and dynamism to United’s midfield.
Under Amorim’s system, which requires a high level of mobility and versatility in midfield, Ederson could thrive. His ability to control the tempo of the game, break lines with his passes, and contribute both offensively and defensively makes him an ideal fit. Given United’s struggles to find consistency in the centre of the park, particularly in transition phases, Ederson’s arrival could provide the stability and fluidity they’ve been missing. While Atalanta is unlikely to let go of one of their key assets in January, United’s interest in the Brazilian shows they are serious about improving their midfield.
2. Alphonso Davies (Bayern Munich)
Alphonso Davies, the 23-year-old Canadian international, has long been a dream target for Manchester United, and despite a potential move to Old Trafford being unlikely in January, the club is expected to monitor the situation closely. Davies, who has made a name for himself as one of the fastest and most dynamic left-backs in world football, has been a standout performer for Bayern Munich, known for his blistering pace, dribbling ability, and solid defensive work.
With his contract expiring in 2025, there have been reports linking Davies with moves to top European clubs, including Real Madrid and Manchester United, but the most likely outcome remains a summer transfer. If United were to secure Davies in January, it would represent a statement signing, addressing one of the most glaring weaknesses in their squad—the left wing-back position. His pace and attacking threat down the flank, combined with his defensive abilities, would make him a perfect fit for Amorim’s formation. Davies could solve United’s long-standing issues at left wing-back and provide a long-term solution for the club.
3. Jarrad Branthwaite (Everton)
The 21-year-old English defender Jarrad Branthwaite has become a target for Manchester United after the club showed interest in him during the summer transfer window. Reports suggest that two bids, reportedly as high as £50 million, were rejected by Everton at the time, but Branthwaite has continued to impress in the Premier League. His maturity and composed performances in central defence, particularly in difficult situations, have made him one of the most promising young defenders in the league.
Branthwaite’s profile fits United’s need for a reliable and versatile centre-back who can play both in a back three and a back four. With Manchester United's defensive struggles this season, Amorim could be keen to bring in the young Englishman, who has already shown his potential at the top level. Additionally, Branthwaite has attracted interest from other Premier League clubs, including Liverpool and Manchester City, but United may try again to secure his services in January. If United were able to land him, Branthwaite could form a solid partnership with the likes of Raphael Varane or Lisandro Martinez, helping to shore up United's defensive issues in the second half of the season.
A Focus on Defensive Reinforcements
While Ederson and Branthwaite could provide immediate upgrades in midfield and defence, United’s interest in Davies highlights their desire to address key areas in Amorim’s tactical setup. The left wing-back role has been a constant problem for the Red Devils, and Davies' pace and attacking threat could make him a game-changer for United’s system.
United’s defensive depth is an area that has been criticized this season. While the signings of Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro were seen as important steps in the right direction, the club still lacks a consistent presence at the back and sufficient cover for the wing-back positions. If United can secure these key signings—particularly in defence and midfield—it would allow Amorim to implement his system more effectively and provide United with the consistency they need to compete at the top level.
Conclusion
The January transfer window is a crucial opportunity for Manchester United to strengthen their squad and address key areas of concern. Defensive vulnerabilities and inconsistency in midfield have been major obstacles so far this season, but the potential arrivals of players like Ederson, Alphonso Davies, and Jarrad Branthwaite could provide the depth, quality, and stability needed to mount a stronger challenge for the remainder of the campaign. With funds available from potential player sales and United’s ongoing ambition to return to the top of English football, the club will be looking to make strategic moves that will give Ruben Amorim the tools he needs to succeed.
