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Ruben Amorim Weighs Manchester United Squad Changes Ahead of January Window
Ruben Amorim has now overseen six games as Manchester United’s head coach and is beginning to adapt to the squad at his disposal. However, with the January transfer window fast approaching, the club’s financial challenges and its less-than-ideal Profitability and Sustainability Regulations (PSR) outlook mean United must prioritize player sales before making any new signings.
Two players likely to be offloaded are Victor Lindelof and Christian Eriksen, whose contracts are set to expire next summer. So far, the club has made no moves to extend either player’s deal, with Amorim reportedly unconvinced about their long-term value to the team.
Lindelof and Eriksen Facing the Exit
As the decision-maker on contract renewals, Amorim appears ready to part ways with the Swedish defender and Danish midfielder.
Christian Eriksen, who enjoyed something of a career resurgence under Erik ten Hag with nine starts earlier this season, has seen his role significantly diminished under Amorim. The Portuguese manager has handed the 32-year-old just one start in six matches, with Eriksen benched for the remainder. Amorim’s high-intensity system seems to expose Eriksen’s lack of physicality, and the return of Kobbie Mainoo from injury has further reduced his opportunities. Eriksen now seems destined to leave, with a potential move to Major League Soccer among the options being considered.
Meanwhile, Victor Lindelof has not featured at all under Amorim. Persistent injury problems and his position at the bottom of the defensive pecking order make his departure seem inevitable. Despite a shared history with Amorim from their time at Benfica, the Swedish center-back is unlikely to earn a place in the lineup, especially with the return to fitness of Leny Yoro. The club hopes to secure a transfer fee for Lindelof during the January window.
Transfer Interest and Loan Possibilities
Lindelof has reportedly drawn attention from several clubs, including former side Benfica and teams in Italy, Germany, Spain, and the Saudi Pro League. Closer to home, Leicester City, now managed by former United interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy, has expressed interest in a potential loan deal.
Although Lindelof’s contract runs until 2025, United may consider a loan move to Leicester as a temporary solution. Such a deal could include a small loan fee and help reduce the burden of Lindelof’s £120,000-a-week wages. Depending on Leicester’s performance in avoiding relegation, the loan could include an option or obligation to buy.
Eriksen, too, has attracted interest from European clubs and MLS teams, and with his reduced role at United, the January window could see him exit for a fee that benefits the club.
Reinforcements Dependent on Departures
Amorim is eager to strengthen the squad, particularly with the addition of a left-sided wingback to suit his tactical setup. However, financial constraints mean any incoming transfers will depend on the funds raised from outgoing players.
If United can offload Lindelof and Eriksen, the financial backing from new majority shareholders INEOS could allow Amorim to pursue reinforcements in January. For now, though, the focus remains on resolving player departures to pave the way for squad improvements in the second half of the season.
