The January transfer window will slam shut in just over a week, which is plenty of time for teams to capture some signings. Here are four players who I would like to see Manchester United move for, and why it would benefit them.

1) Ivan Rakitic – Sevilla

For me, this man has to be David Moyes’ first signing of the window. I know we only have a week or so left, but I would throw everything into this deal. The Croatia international has scored 11 goals this season and has claimed 12 assists, which would go down brilliantly with United right about now.

2) Juan Mata – Chelsea

The Blues playmaker has been incredible over the last few years and has rightly scooped the Chelsea Player of the Year twice in a row, but life under Jose Mourinho has proved tough for the little Spaniard.

He would bring creativity, energy and a panache into the side, and would work brilliantly with Rakitic, I reckon.

3) Jamaal Lascelles – Nottingham Forest

Should the above both happen, then I am guessing that the club would be reluctant to spend a lot more money.

This centre-half is currently plying his trade with Championship side Nottingham Forest and would certainly be one for the future, but with Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic both running out of contract in the summer, perhaps a move for him this week with a deal to loan him to Forest until the end of the season could work.

4) Fabio Coentrao – Real Madrid

One of the most skilful left-backs I have seen in recent years, Coentrao would add some much needed quality in said position. Patrice Evra is also out on contract at the end of the season so it could be in view of a longer deal in the summer.