The late Christmas presents Man Utd fans will be hoping for in January | OneFootball

It has been a happy festive period for Manchester United fans so far.

Three points against Newcastle would have been top of many fans’ wish lists for Christmas, with Ruben Amorim’s side holding firm to see out a 1-0 win after a stunning strike from Patrick Dorgu.

But clearly, there are still issues United need to fix if they are to enjoy a strong second half of the season and keep improving.

United supporters may already have received their Christmas gifts, whether it be custom football shirts, some new pairs of socks, or something flash like a new bicycle, but some late Christmas presents in the January transfer window for Ruben Amorim would also be very welcome.

Here’s what United fans will be hoping for in the new year…

More dynamism in midfield

Bruno Fernandes’ injury has left United desperately short in the middle of the pitch.

With Kobbie Mainoo also out and his future uncertain, United need to add some depth in the middle of the pitch if they are to kick on in 2026.

Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte are solid players, but do not offer much going forward and United need more dynamism in the centre of the park.

They have been linked with several names. Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, Brighton’s Carlos Baleba, Atletico Madrid’s Conor Gallagher, and Al Hilal’s Ruben Neves are among those United are said to be interested in and all would bring a skillset United are lacking with their mobility and athleticism.

Baleba and Wharton would likely be very expensive signings and may have to wait until the summer, while the likes of Gallagher and Neves present a shorter term solution to their issues.

Competition for Sesko

Benjamin Sesko has had an up and down first season at the club, showing glimpses of what he can do but also having his struggles with injury.

He has netted just twice in 14 games in the Premier League and while there is enough to suggest he can be a good player for the club, with Joshua Zirkzee yet to impress this season and reports he might be set for a move back to Serie A in January, United could do with someone to provide more competition for Sesko.

Matheus Cunha can also play up top, but looks better suited to playing off the left. It is hard to do deals in January anyway, especially for strikers, but adding one could be the boost United need to take them back into Europe.

Depth in defence

Amorim might have moved away from his favoured back three system in recent games due to injuries but he will almost certainly go back to it when the players are available.

Harry Maguire and Mathjis de Ligt being sidelined has hurt them but it still feels as though some added depth in defence would be a big boost.

Leny Yoro has looked unconvincing at times and is still learning his way, Ayden Heaven has been impressive but is also still young, so adding versatility and more depth in the back-line to cope with injuries and inexperience would be a smart move.