We’re still in the midst of the third international break, with Manchester United off until Sunday, when they visit Sheffield United. The Red Devils are currently in seventh place, nine points out of a top four position, conveying just how much better they need to be.
Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer deserves to be given a fair chance, as the rebuilding project ahead of him is massive. United will have to be very active at the January transfer window; which isn’t very far away now. So with that in mind, let’s take a look at who could be coming and going from Old Trafford come January. For the MUFC news items round-up go to this link.
Back in the summer, Sporting CP midfielder Bruno Fernandes was heavily linked to United, but obviously, it never happened. Supposedly, he would fetch a transfer fee in the neighborhood of £47 million.
United fans really want him at the club, getting excited and impressed by the goal he scored while on international duty with Portugal. However, the playmaker says there is no reason to force an exit from the club right now. Asked about the transfer rumors swirling about him, he told Sky Sports:
“I’m not worried at all [about transfer window speculation]. Since 2016, there’s been talk about my possible departure. I’m well, doing my job and doing the best I can. I have dreams to fulfil but I have no need to force my departure. I feel the love here and if I have to leave, I hope I leave good memories.”
Next we move on to another long time target, and stay in the midfield, talking about West Ham United’s Declan Rice. Club legend Roy Keane talked a lot about Rice, and most of what he said was pretty harsh.
'Where do you want me to start? His positional play, I don't think he has been consistent enough, he doesn't stay with runners…'
Roy Keane remains unconvinced by Declan Rice
Who do you want to see play DM for @England?#ThreeLions #ITVFootball pic.twitter.com/fIsFnv7hLw
— ITV Football (@itvfootball) November 17, 2019
He most certainly did not hold back.
In the next item, we cover young winger Tahith Chong, who is reportedly wanted by Juventus. United are reportedly confident of getting him locked up long term, despite the contract saga dragging out.
Metro reports Old Trafford working on a new £25,000-a-week contract extension for him.
Finally, Juventus have made a decision on Turkish defender Merih Demiral, and it’s a boost for both United and Arsenal, two teams that are scoutihg him. The Express has more.
Paul M. Banks runs The Sports Bank.net, which is partnered with News Now. Banks, the author of “No, I Can’t Get You Free Tickets: Lessons Learned From a Life in the Sports Media Industry,” regularly appears on WGN CLTV and co-hosts the “Let’s Get Weird, Sports” podcast on SB Nation.
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