As Manchester United aims to bolster their squad during the January transfer window, here are ten potential targets across four key positions: central defense, defensive midfield, central midfield, and striker. These additions could address the team’s current issues and enhance their prospects for the rest of the season.
Centre-Backs
**Jean-Clair Todibo**
– **Club**: Nice
– **Profile**: A talented center-back who has shown consistent performances in Ligue 1. His defensive skills and ability to play out from the back make him a solid option.
– **Competition**: Tottenham Hotspur
**Antonio Silva**
– **Club**: Benfica
– **Profile**: Highly regarded as a top-level defender, Silva possesses strong defensive qualities and maturity despite his young age.
– **Release Clause**: £87 million
– **Competition**: Real Madrid, Chelsea
**Jarrad Branthwaite**
– **Club**: Everton
– **Profile**: Offers Premier League experience and has been a standout for Everton this season. His development potential and familiarity with the league make him an attractive option.
– **Price Tag**: Approximately £90 million
Defensive Midfielders
**Frenkie de Jong**
– **Club**: Barcelona
– **Profile**: Known for his composure and ability to control the tempo of the game. De Jong could be the perfect fit in United’s midfield but prying him away from Barcelona will be challenging.
**Joao Palhinha**
– **Club**: Fulham
– **Profile**: Renowned for his tackling and defensive capabilities, Palhinha would add strength and experience to United’s midfield.
– **Previous Interest**: Nearly joined Bayern Munich in the summer
Central Midfielders
**Joao Neves**
– **Club**: Benfica
– **Profile**: A promising 19-year-old midfielder admired by Bruno Fernandes. Despite his high release clause, Neves could be a long-term asset for United.
– **Release Clause**: £103 million
**Amadou Onana**
– **Club**: Everton
– **Profile**: Known for his physicality and passing ability, Onana has Premier League experience and could be a versatile addition to United’s midfield.
Strikers
1. **Timo Werner (RB Leipzig)**
– **Profile**: Werner has experience and could provide support to Rasmus Hojlund, potentially thriving in a new system after a challenging stint at Chelsea.
2. **Evan Ferguson (Brighton)**
– **Profile**: A promising young striker with impressive goal-scoring ability. His recent contract extension with Brighton might complicate a move, but his potential makes him a strong candidate.
3. **Antoine Griezmann (Atlético Madrid)**
– **Profile**: An experienced and prolific forward, Griezmann would add depth and versatility to United’s attack, particularly beneficial for their Champions League campaign.
### Conclusion
By targeting these players, Manchester United can address their current weaknesses and significantly enhance their squad depth and quality. These additions would not only help in immediate competitions but also build a stronger foundation for the future. Each player brings a unique set of skills that can help United compete more effectively both domestically and in Europe
