Pranav Nair
Manchester United are set to back Ralf Rangnick in the January transfer window but there is a catch
According to The Telegraph (Subscription Required), Manchester United look set to back soon-to-be interim manager, Ralf Rangnick in the upcoming January transfer window.
The Red Devils have enjoyed a spotty start to the season so far. Things reached a new low in the 4-2 thrashing away to Watford last weekend and ultimately saw Ole Gunnar Solskjaer get the sack.
Michael Carrick has since taken over as the caretaker manager and led the side to a 2-0 away win to Villarreal. He will also take charge against Chelsea this weekend before as Rangnick’s role becomes clearer.
While the Red Devils board is not averse to permitting the German to sign new players, there is a catch. With a bloated squad already at their disposal, players will also need to be moved on to balance the books.
The last dance?
Jesse Lingard for one is in the final few months of his contract. Man United might choose to sell him in January than risk losing him on a free in the summer. Whether the same applied to Paul Pogba, who is also in the same boat, remains to be seen.
One man who could however be handed a new lease of life is Donny van de Beek. The Dutchman failed to get opportunities to play let alone impress under Solskjaer. He now looks set to be given an opportunity to make his case to Rangnick.
However, should he be overlooked once again, the Red Devils are open to ending their association with the 24-year-old. There are clearly decisions being made behind the scenes that could have an impact on the club for years to come.
Another player who could be allowed to leave is Dean Henderson. Currently behind the impressive David de Gea in the Man United pecking order, the Englishman appears unlikely to get the nod. This could very well lead to the club having to make a decision in January.
Selling the aforementioned player could bring in finances for the Red Devils to then splash and reinforce their squad. Despite taking on an interim role, Rangnick looks set to continue in a consultations role until 2024. It thus makes sense that he has a say in the club’s transfers.
Rangnick’s eye for talent is peerless and he has identified key talents during his time at TSG Hoffenheim and then the Red Bull conglomerate. Man United could certainly use the same smarts in their recruitment system.
More Manchester United News
- Manchester United stars Anthony Martial and Donny van de Beek to reconsider January transfer decision with Ralf Rangnick appointment
- Ralf Rangnick to hold talks with Michael Carrick and Kieran McKenna before finalizing his Manchester United staff
- Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp lavishes praise on incoming Manchester United interim-boss Ralf Rangnick
Just who the Red Devils will choose to go for remains to be seen. As things stand, the club has a plethora of world-class talent in the squad. There are, however, certain tweaks to be made such as adding a reliable defensive midfielder into the mix. As for Lingard, Henderson, and van de Beek, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that the club is stronger with the trio on the side.
After all, squad depth is vital for a club like ours that will be competing for trophies on all fronts. It will be interesting to see just what extent of power will be afforded to Rangnick in January. Given how our season has gone, the German has a long and hard road ahead of him.
