Manchester United target a defender and striker for January

Manchester United are expected to make a defender and a striker their main targets in the January transfer window, as new manager Mauricio Pochettino takes charge of a team struggling near the bottom of the Premier League table. The club confirmed Pochettino’s appointment on Friday; he replaces Michael Carrick on a contract running until 2029.

United have won three of their 15 matches in all competitions this season. Defensive difficulties and injuries have contributed to the poor start, while striker Benjamin Sesko is expected to remain out until the new year with a persistent shin problem.

Pochettino is expected to receive substantial backing, though much of the club’s transfer activity may come in the summer. United are still looking to move players on, and their ability to do so affected spending in the most recent summer window.

The club had expected to receive £36 million from Barcelona for Marcus Rashford under an agreement, but Barcelona opted not to proceed and instead pursued Anthony Gordon. Several United players, including Harry Maguire, Bruno Fernandes and Luke Shaw, have contracts due to expire in the summer, with the club holding options to extend each by a year. Fernandes is described as the club’s second-highest earner behind Rashford.

January business can be difficult, but the immediate need for a defender and a striker is sharpened by United’s results and Sesko’s absence. Further moves may depend on the club’s efforts to make room in its squad and wage bill.