Amorim signalled Manchester United could bring in January recruits focused on long‑term potential rather than short‑term AFCON cover. Betting impact: if Antoine Semenyo becomes a clear target, odds on United completing a forward signing and Semenyo starting or scoring would shorten — punters might favour markets on permanent signings over late-window short-term fixes.
Amorim hints at January business but wants 'the future' — not short‑term fixes
Ruben Amorim has left the door open to January activity at Manchester United, stressing any additions would be chosen for their long‑term fit rather than to plug short‑term gaps caused by AFCON absences. The United boss made clear that recruitment will prioritise players who can shape the club’s future, not immediate stopgaps.
Summer signings and the midfield search
United added several attacking options during the summer, including Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Šeško. Despite that influx, the club still views midfield reinforcements as a priority after missing out on targets in the last window.
Named midfield targets
Brighton’s Carlos Baleba was among the names linked in the summer, while Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton remain on United’s radar as possible midfield solutions. The search for a long‑term central option looks set to continue through the season.
Antoine Semenyo emergence and competition
Antoine Semenyo has emerged as a prominent transfer rumour, with a reported £65m release clause due next month. Competition for the Bournemouth forward is expected from Manchester City and Liverpool, heightening the market should United pursue him. Amorim’s reported meeting with Semenyo in London at the end of last season could be a factor, and there has been speculation the Ghana international might even be considered as a wing‑back option.
Amorim on transfer strategy
On the prospect of January arrivals, Amorim said: "We'll see. The only thing we know is that we only would try to bring players that we think are going to be the future. It's not going to be to save something in this moment, to cope with the losses of three players for AFCON. It’s not going to be like that, even if we try to bring one player, maybe it's not the position that we need more. We will try to bring now – and in the end of the season – players that are perfect for our future. I don't know what is going to happen, but it's possible that we can do something."
Kobbie Mainoo urged to fight for place
Amorim also called on Kobbie Mainoo to remain and compete for his place at Old Trafford after the young midfielder has yet to start a Premier League match this term. "Kobbie needs to fight for his job. I think that it's not a bad thing to be on the bench of Manchester United when you are 20 years old," Amorim said, referencing past stars who also experienced early bench spells.
What this means for January markets
A clear statement that United will prioritise long‑term targets suggests any January activity may be selective rather than large‑scale. That approach could influence betting markets by making concrete transfer favourites (e.g., Semenyo) more attractive if links strengthen, while reducing volatility from speculative late-window loan moves.
Fernandes: Man United wanted me to go
Manchester United could make a move in January after Ruben Amorim offered a transfer hint when asked about the club's budget for the forthcoming window
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