BREAKING NEWS: Manchester United prepare to offload SEVEN players in January as Sir Jim Ratcliffe authorizes a massive £400 million transfer budget amid an injury crisis and AFCON absences
Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has shed new light on why Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is reluctant to approve certain outgoing transfers in the upcoming January window.
Despite the club’s readiness to reshape the squad once again, Amorim is reportedly hesitant to weaken key areas while dealing with a congested fixture list and the looming African Cup of Nations.
Manchester United were extremely busy during the summer transfer window, investing approximately £230 million to bring in the likes of Senne Lammens, Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbeumo.
These arrivals strengthened multiple positions and injected fresh energy into the squad.
Their outgoing business was equally significant, as the club successfully moved on several high-profile names no longer central to the long-term project.
Among the notable departures were Rasmus Hojlund, Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, and Jadon Sancho, signalling a major squad overhaul.
These changes have contributed to a more balanced and competitive team, but Amorim and the board acknowledge that more reinforcements will be needed especially in midfield.
United are reportedly targeting a new defensive midfielder (No. 6), with Carlos Baleba and Elliot Anderson emerging as two primary candidates. Further departures are expected as part of this restructuring.
However, Romano has revealed that two players — Kobbie Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee — may not be allowed to leave in January despite their desire for more playing time. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano explained:
“There are two situations to keep an eye on: Kobbie Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee. With several squad members set to depart for AFCON, Ruben Amorim is determined not to weaken the team mid-season. This is playing a huge role in United’s decisions.”
According to Romano, AS Roma have shown genuine and persistent interest in Zirkzee and have already communicated with his representatives.
He is considered a priority signing for the Italian club. Yet, everything hinges on Manchester United — and Amorim has not sanctioned a move.
Similarly, Kobbie Mainoo is eager for more first-team football and has attracted interest from more than ten clubs, including Napoli, who have been pushing hardest for his signature. Despite this, United remain undecided.
Romano added, “The stance from Old Trafford is straightforward: because of AFCON and concerns about depth, no player will be allowed to leave unless the club is certain the squad is fully protected.”
In addition to Napoli, Mainoo has also been linked with Premier League side Chelsea, a rumour that former Premier League chief executive Keith Wyness recently commented on.
Wyness stated that he has “heard whispers” suggesting that Chelsea are seriously considering a move.
He said:
“I feel it’s quite unfair. Mainoo is a fantastic talent, but for whatever reason, he hasn’t convinced Amorim. The manager clearly believes he doesn’t fit the system.
I think United have already identified Adam Wharton as a preferred midfield option, and because of that, Mainoo may need to reinvent himself elsewhere — possibly at Chelsea.”
Wyness concluded by saying that a move could benefit the young midfielder, suggesting that leaving United might be the best pathway for his development and career progression.
