With speculation surrounding manager Louis van Gaal’s future in the Old Trafford hot seat, Manchester United appear to be in a state of transition as they prepare for a January transfer window in which the club appears to be looking to make a move or two.
Despite a huge summer spree, United have failed to produce the brand of football and results one comes to expect from the Old Trafford side, and Ed Woodward is expected to be in the market to bring in a couple of new players. Whether Louis van Gaal remains in charge or the much fancied Jose Mourinho takes over the reins is something that remains to be seen.
Here is the probable Manchester United lineup after the January transfer window.
Goalkeeper – David De Gea
The Spaniard is one of the very best in his position and seems to be enjoying another fine season in goal.
Defence – Darmian, Smalling, Blind, Rojo.
Matteo Darmian is still United’s most suitable choice at right back, with Antonio Valencia a long term absentee and Ashley Young lacking the positional sense of a full back.
Chris Smalling started the campaign on a high but a couple of shocking defensive displays has seen his side bow out of the Champions League and lose ground on the Premier League leaders. Much is expected of the England centre back in the second half of the season as United set about trying to recover lost ground.
Phil Jones had a shocker against Norwich City and Daley Blind provides a more consistent option alongside Smalling.
Marcos Rojo is the best available left back in the absence of the injured Luke Shaw.
Midfield – Schneiderlin, Herrera, Mahrez, Boufal.
Morgan Schneiderlin has failed to recapture his excellent form at Southampton last season, but still remains a vital player for United in a central defensive midfield role. The pairing of the Frenchman alongside Ander Herrera could just be the catalyst for United, who have lacked invention and penetration from midfield.
Riyad Mahrez has set the world alight this season leading Leicester to the top of the League with his blistering pace and quality down the right flank. With United racking up the lowest number of dribbles and the highest number of passes per attempt on goal, the Algerian’s pace could be key in this United team.
Lille winger Sofiane Boufal has impressed with five goals in 17 appearances for the Ligue 1 side and could well make the switch to England in January, if reports in France are to be believed and we think Ed Woodward will pull this deal in January. Compare betting odds at Wagered.com before placing your bet, if you think Boufal will be a Manchester United player by the end of January.
Strikers – Wayne Rooney, Anthony Martial.
Wayne Rooney has failed to provide any sort of inspiration for United this season but with Mata and Depay looking out of sorts, the United captain still remains a key player, for the remainder of this season at least.
The newly crowned Golden Boy Anthony Martial would love to play in the company of Mahrez given the number of goals the Jamie Vardy-Mahrez duo have racked up this season.
