Man United's January transfer plans hinge on key factor, and it's not Ruben Amorim
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(Credit: Imago)
Ben Palmer
Thu 25 September 2025 7:00, UK
Man United’s start to the 2025-26 season has not gone to plan and they may react by “splashing big cash in January”.
That is the verdict of football finance expert Dan Plumley, who told Football Insider exclusively that he wonders how much patience Ruben Amorim will be given this season.
Man United lost to Tottenham in the Europa League final last term, causing the club to miss out on European football this campaign.
Whilst detrimental to the club’s finances, the lack of continental football gave Amorim the chance to focus on the Red Devils’ patchy league form.
However, the 2025-26 campaign’s results so far have been a mixed bag, and if Man United are unable to rectify them, a foray into the transfer market looks likely.
Credit: Imago
Speaking to Football Insider exclusively, Plumley explained that the club’s league position would likely dictate how active they are in the coming transfer window, rather than specifically Amorim’s performance.
The Red Devils currently sit 11th in the table, having won two, drawn one, and lost two of their opening five games of the season.
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Man United’s attacking stats have been impressive to start the season, with Amorim’s side registering the highest xG in the Premier League, although they have struggled to translate those strong statistics into goals.
The finance expert also predicted that Man United may return for Carlos Baleba, after enquiring about the midfielder during the summer window.
Plumley said: “In terms of splashing big cash in January, I think that’s going to be dependent on where they are in the league, and if they have to make a big statement because things aren’t going well.
Credit: Manh Tung, Breaking Media
“They can probably go and do that, but if they don’t, they might go back to Baleba and try and do that deal in January.
“I think after last season, I just wonder how much patience there is across the board from fans, the hierarchy, whoever that may be at that club.
“I guess there’s a question about how much patience have they got to have another season like last season?
“Manchester United can’t keep doing that.
That’s not gonna work.”
Amorim was given plenty of ammunition up front in the summer window via the signings of Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo, and Matheus Cunha.
And with his attack now beginning to take shape, it would be no surprise to see a similar overhaul to the club’s midfield.
Casemiro looks likely to leave Man United despite improved performances recently.
(Credit Imago)
Kobbie Mainoo remains out in the cold at Man United, whilst Casemiro’s contract expires at the end of the season.
The club’s former chief scout, Mick Brown, told Football Insider that the 20-time champions of England will be willing to entertain offers for the Brazil international this winter.