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More set back for Manchester United as their best player agrees terms to join another club in January

In recent seasons, Manchester United’s winter transfer activity has been relatively subdued, mainly due to budget constraints following their significant summer expenditures.

 

This, however, may need to change urgently. United is set to end 2024 in 14th position, having endured nine losses in the first half of the season. The club also set a new record for most league defeats in a single calendar month (five), breaking a 62-year-old benchmark from September 1962. To reverse this dismal form, January reinforcements could prove pivotal under INEOS’s stewardship.

 

Casemiro’s Possible January Departure

 

Attracting new players might depend on selling existing squad members. Marcus Rashford’s role at Old Trafford appears uncertain; although he was available for selection last night after a four-game absence, he did not feature, with his last appearance being on December 12.

 

Meanwhile, reports from UOL Esporte claim that Casemiro has “agreed to leave” the club in the upcoming weeks, potentially joining a Saudi Pro League team. Offloading his £350,000-a-week salary would likely be welcomed by the club’s hierarchy to ease financial pressure.

 

Casemiro recently started against Newcastle United in the absence of Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte, yet he struggled to deliver the dominant performances fans once expected from him.

 

Immediate Actions Required

 

If United hopes to salvage their season, decisive measures during the January transfer window are essential, starting with offloading players to create room for necessary additions.

 

Key Issues:

 

1. Squad Quality: Injuries and poor form from essential players, such as Rashford and Casemiro, have magnified the team’s struggles. Improving consistency and performance through new signings is crucial.

 

 

2. Financial Challenges: After heavy summer spending, the club faces budget limitations. Selling high earners like Casemiro could free up resources for reinforcements.

 

 

3. Managerial Concerns: Under Rúben Amorim, tactical inflexibility has been a recurring criticism. Without clarity on his position, integrating new players effectively remains uncertain.

 

 

 

Casemiro’s Decline and Saudi Interest

 

– Declining Influence: Once a midfield stalwart, Casemiro’s recent performances have fallen short. His lack of pace and reduced physicality have been exposed in high-pressure games.

– Financial Benefits: A transfer to Saudi Arabia could provide United with much-needed financial relief, especially by cutting his hefty wages.

 

Transfer Priorities

 

For a turnaround, United should prioritize:

 

1. Midfield Upgrades: With Fernandes struggling, Ugarte still settling, and Casemiro possibly leaving, signing a dynamic, ball-winning midfielder is critical.

 

 

2. Defensive Strengthening: Addressing vulnerabilities in defense by adding a versatile defender could bring stability.

 

 

3. Attacking Creativity: A reliable playmaker or goal-scorer is vital to reignite the team’s offensive firepower.

 

 

 

Conclusion

 

United’s precarious league position demands urgent and strategic action in January. Selling Casemiro and other underperforming players could fund key signings to rebuild the squad. However, any additions must align with a clear tactical plan to avoid repeating previous missteps. With INEOS now steering operations, this transfer window presents a go

lden opportunity to reset the club’s trajectory.

 

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