Weekly Manchester United Transfer Talk -Jan. Week 2

This will be a new weekly segment for the American Red Devils: Weekly United Transfer Talk.

Here I’ll cover all the transfer updates, news, and Muppetry circling around Manchester United transfers each week. I’m talking everything from dream fan transfers to Sun articles. Of course, not all rumors can be mentioned as the rumors around United are continuously pouring in. But, I will do my best to discuss the ones I find the most prominent, hilarious, and legitimate. So, without further ado, let’s get into it.

Denis Zakaria Inbound

Believe it or not, but United haven’t signed a proper midfielder since Fred in 2018. But, reports are that United are close to signing Denis Zakaria form Borussia Monchengladbach. The 25 year-old is considered an excellent box-to-box midfielder, something United is in desperate need of. With Zakaria’s contract due to expire this summer, the Bundesliga club are willing to sell now.

According to various reports, the transfer fee would be just over 10 million Euros. The price combined with Zakaria’s age and position make him a no brainer for Manchester United. The Swiss international has established himself as a key figure for both his club and country in recent seasons.

Donny Van de Beek to Newcastle

With no premier league starts to his name this season, Donny Van de Beek is keen to make a move this January. It has been reported that Newcastle are extremely interested in the Dutch midfielder. Manchester United has reportedly ‘offered’ the young midfielder to both Newcastle and Dortmund to take on loan for the remainder of the season. Although, Ralf Ragnick did praise the midfielder following the FA cup win over Villa. Ragnick said his introduction saw United gain ‘control’ in the match. Perhaps there are signs of life for Donny under Ralf Ragnick.

Unless Donny is given more playing time and is handed a few starts, I don’t see the player willing to remain with the club. His move from Ajax has only seen his progress as a footballer halt. Maybe a loan move to Newcastle could give him the chance to showcase his skills in the Premier League and convince Ragnick or the next United manager to put him in their plans.

Declan Rice to Old Trafford

Well, this rumor has been circling around for what feels like years now. The English midfielder has had a decent career for West Ham United and has been key to their recent success under David Moyes. Opinions on the English lad have been divided amongst Man United supporters in recent years, but I’m sure any new face would be welcome in an attempt to solve the club’s midfield woes.

Rice is only 22 years old and has been a consistent top player in the premier league for a while now. He is considered a holding midfielder, a position Man United is in desperate need of. Although, with the likes of Chelsea also in for him, the transfer fee will be high. It’s being reported that whomever attempts to buy Rice will have to offer near 200 million pounds. I don’t recommend buying anyone for that much money, but I do think Rice would greatly improve the Man United midfield.

United to sign Fabian Ruiz

According to reports, Man United are in the lead to sign Fabian Ruiz from Napoli. The 25 year old midfielder’s contract is set to run out in 2023 and he has no intent of signing an extension. Thus, Napoli are keen to offload the midfielder in an effort to recoup some value from him.

The Spanish midfielder has 5 goals and 3 assists for Napoli in Serie A this season, and is regarded as one of Europe’s top midfielders. Although, this deal seems more likely to come in the summer as Napoli desire to lockdown a replacement before letting him go.

Other noted gossip

Jesse Lingard will see his contract expire at the end of this season. The 29 year old is seeking a move that will see him play regular first team football. Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly keen to bring in the midfielder. With his contract up in the summer a winter move is unlikely. Although, it would benefit both clubs to move him on now. Tottenham could use the reinforcements in their top 4 chase, while United would prefer to get something rather than nothing.

Mauricio Pochettino remains the most likely permanent replacement to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. The Argentine is said to be adamant on returning to the Premier League and his unhappy in his role as manger of PSG. United fans are definitely very divided on the opinion of the Argentine. But, we should remember that Sir Alex rates him very highly and he did do quite well with Tottenham Hotspur and Southampton.

Marcus Rashford is United’s top priority this summer. Despite his recent dip in form, United are very keen to make sure they extend the 24 year-olds’ contract this summer.

Finally, there are some ridiculous rumors about Cristiano Ronaldo floating around, but there always are. Ronaldo is not going anywhere folks.

That’s the end of Weekly Transfer Talk. Check back next week for more updates.