Man United are still in the market for a last-gasp permanent signing this month and a marquee deal could yet be done, sources have told Football Insider.
It is believed that a loan signing, or potentially two, is more likely for the Premier League giants this month.
However, a big-money capture, described as a potentially ‘huge’ deal by sources, cannot be ruled out although there will need to be more departures for that to happen.
United have made progress in reducing their huge wage bill by shifting multiple players on loan, most notably Jadon Sancho to Borussia Dortmund for the remainder of the season.
As revealed by Football Insider earlier this month (5 January), Dortmund will pay around 40 per cent of Sancho’s £250,000-a-week wages during his loan spell away from Old Trafford.
This, along with the departure of Hannibal Mejbri to Sevilla this month, has given Erik ten Hag’s side much more financial flexibility for the remainder of the window.
The bill could be reduced further if Facundo Pellistri departs, with Football Insider revealing (17 January) that Granada are in advanced talks to sign the Uruguay international.
A late signing is not out of the question for United, with the club’s recruitment team prioritising a new centre-back if they are able to get a deal done.
Sources have also told Football Insider (18 January) that young defender Rhys Bennett is in advanced talks over a loan move to Stockport County.
Man United sit seventh in the Premier League table after their 2-2 draw against Tottenham on Sunday (14 January).
They are next in action in the fourth round of the FA Cup when they travel to Rodney Parade to face Newport County on Sunday 28 January.
In other news, Exclusive: Man United agreed deal to sign Premier League superstar but they missed the deadline by one hour – senior scout
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