Six Manchester United Players Set for January Exit to Fund Viktor Gyökeres Transfer

Manchester United is gearing up for a potentially transformative January transfer window, with Sporting Lisbon’s in-form striker, Viktor Gyökeres, reportedly their top priority. The Swedish forward has been in scintillating form, netting 27 goals in 27 appearances this season. Head coach Ruben Amorim is said to be urging United’s management to prioritize Gyökeres’ acquisition to bolster their attack.

However, financial constraints loom large, making the move challenging. To navigate these restrictions, Manchester United may part ways with several first-team players to free up funds and squad space. Here’s a detailed look at six players who could leave Old Trafford this winter.

1. Marcus Rashford

Marcus Rashford’s future at Manchester United is increasingly uncertain. The 27-year-old forward has been excluded from the matchday squad in four of the last five fixtures and was benched during the recent Premier League clash against Newcastle United.

Rashford, once a mainstay in United’s attack, reportedly seeks a “new challenge” after falling out of favor with Amorim. The coach has expressed dissatisfaction with Rashford’s performances in training and his attitude off the pitch.

Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain, and clubs from Saudi Arabia have shown interest, but a permanent deal may be hindered by disagreements over valuation. United demands between £40m and £50m, while Arsenal values him closer to £25m. Regardless, Rashford’s exit—be it on loan or permanent—seems increasingly likely.

2. Casemiro

Brazilian midfielder Casemiro is another big-name player linked with a potential January departure. Despite making 22 appearances this season, the 32-year-old has struggled to adapt to Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 system, which demands greater mobility.

Casemiro’s weekly wages of approximately £350,000 have attracted interest from Saudi Arabia, with Al-Nassr reportedly leading the race for his signature. Offloading Casemiro would significantly reduce United’s wage bill and provide financial breathing room for new acquisitions.

Since joining United, Casemiro has made 105 appearances, contributing 15 goals and nine assists. However, his recent struggles suggest that the club might be ready to cash in on him.

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3. Christian Eriksen

Christian Eriksen’s Premier League form has been underwhelming this season. Despite four goals and three assists in 17 appearances, all his contributions have come in cup competitions. In the league, the 32-year-old has struggled to influence games effectively.

With a contract running until 2025, United might look to sell Eriksen while his value remains reasonable. The Danish playmaker, who arrived on a free transfer, could still attract interest from clubs in Europe. However, his departure appears inevitable as Amorim reshapes the squad.

4. Joshua Zirkzee

Joshua Zirkzee has endured a difficult season at Old Trafford. The Dutch forward has managed just four goals and two assists in 27 appearances, drawing criticism from fans and pundits alike.

Zirkzee’s substitution during the Newcastle game, met with cheers from the crowd, underscored his struggles. A move to Serie A could be on the cards, with Napoli and Juventus expressing interest. While a permanent January transfer may be challenging, a loan deal with an obligation to buy could materialize.

5. Victor Lindelöf

Victor Lindelöf, who has made 268 appearances for Manchester United since joining in 2017, is set to leave the club soon. The Swedish defender’s contract expires in June 2024, and with injury issues limiting his involvement this season, United might look to offload him in January.

Lazio and AC Milan are reportedly interested in Lindelöf, whose departure would create space for new signings and provide wage budget relief.

6. Alejandro Garnacho

Alejandro Garnacho has emerged as a bright prospect for Manchester United but is strongly linked with a move to Atlético Madrid. While the club values his potential, financial pressures and interest from Spain could see the talented winger depart.

Garnacho’s exit, should it happen, would signal a significant shift in United’s strategy, focusing on short-term gains to secure immediate results under Amorim.

The Bigger Picture

Ruben Amorim’s vision for Manchester United involves a tactical overhaul, with Viktor Gyökeres at the center of his plans. To fund such a marquee signing, the club must make tough decisions. Offloading high-profile players like Rashford, Casemiro, and Eriksen could provide the financial muscle needed to bring Gyökeres to Old Trafford.

While these potential exits may disrupt the squad temporarily, they align with United’s long-term ambition of building a team capable of challenging for major honors.

Conclusion

The January transfer window promises to be a pivotal period for Manchester United. As the club aims to secure Viktor Gyökeres, departures of key players could reshape the squad significantly. Whether these moves pay off remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: January will be a defining month for the Red Devils.