Potential Winter Departures from Manchester United

Manchester United made significant strides in player offloading during the summer transfer window, but further exits could happen when January arrives.

Changes in the Squad

The club transferred out the polarizing players Alejandro Garnacho, Marcus Rashford, Antony, and Jadon Sancho on either permanent or temporary deals. Their replacements have largely made an immediate positive impact in the attack.

Under the guidance of Ruben Amorim, the squad appears much stronger than last season, showcasing improved balance and quality. However, there are still players who could be on the move come January. Below are five candidates for departure.

Tyrell Malacia

Tyrell Malacia was the only player from United’s ‘bomb squad’ not to leave during the summer. The left-back has not played this season due to injury and came close to transferring to Elche before the deadline, but the move fell through.

The upcoming January transfer window could allow Malacia to start fresh—an arrangement that might benefit both him and the club. After spending time on loan with PSV Eindhoven last winter, he could follow the same path now. However, a permanent transfer would be more advantageous for United, especially since his contract is set to expire next summer. If he leaves, the club may struggle to recover the £13 million spent on him.

Diego León

Since his arrival, Diego León has been almost entirely absent from first-team action. The 18-year-old left wing-back, brought in for around £7 million including add-ons, remains an investment for the future. Despite the team’s need for wing-back options expressed by Amorim, León has yet to make his debut for the senior squad, only featuring with the Under-21s.

A loan deal may offer him valuable experience on the field, which is crucial for his development this season.

Ayden Heaven

Ayden Heaven has seen limited playing time this season. Signed from Arsenal, he showed promise last term with six appearances, but he now faces stiff competition in the defensive lineup from more established players.

With many ahead in the pecking order, opportunities for Heaven have dwindled. Recent appearances have not yet proven convincing, making a loan move a sensible option for him. Given that United are not involved in European competitions, minutes will be hard to come by.

Kobbie Mainoo

Kobbie Mainoo could attract considerable interest in January. Once considered a key player in the making, his lack of playing time under Amorim has led to frustration. He wishes to seek a move away from Old Trafford to continue his growth.

While a permanent exit may not be on the cards this winter, a loan seems likely, as he hopes to be a part of England’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Clubs like Napoli and Real Madrid have shown interest, and Mainoo seems inclined towards an overseas move for more opportunities on the pitch.

Joshua Zirkzee

Joshua Zirkzee has also faced limited minutes due to the arrival of Benjamin Šeško, who has often been favored over him in attack. Zirkzee has been linked with a transfer away from United, with Roma reportedly interested. A return to Italy, where he performed well at Bologna, could rejuvenate his career.

Despite the rumors, Zirkzee appears keen to stay and fight for his role at United. However, if he decides on a transfer, a move abroad may be what he needs to revive his footballing journey.

Conclusion

As the January transfer window approaches, these players could find themselves at pivotal points in their careers, with potential moves away from Manchester United awaiting them.