Manchester United’s season has been ridiculed with controversy just as much as it has oozed inspiration.
Despite falling way ahead of the pack as a result of a string of disheartening draws that stretched throughout October and November, the Red Devils have through leather patience and sheer hard work managed to cling onto relevance in the title race: cutting down Chelsea’s lead to only ten points.
With the winter transfer window open, here are four businesses United will conduct to help advance Jose Mourinho’s agenda.
Morgan Schneiderlin (Out)
Maligned for most of the season- with Jose Mourinho preferring the likes of Marouane Fellaini, Michael Carrick and Ander Herrera- Morgan Schneiderlin was forced to submit a transfer request which was reluctantly approved by the Manchester United gaffer.
Frontrunners Everton had their initial bid of £19m rejected, although there are now reports claiming that a fee has been agreed between both parties after the Frenchman revealed his interest in reuniting with his former boss Ronald Koeman.
Bastian Schweinsteiger (Out)
The World Cup winner and former Bayern Munich midfielder made yet another cameo return to the first team after replacing Michael Carrick during United’s 4-0 rout of Reading in the third round of the FA Cup.
Although Mourinho lifted his initial ban from training with the first team, the 32-year old isn’t a long-term prospect and as such, could be sold to the MLS in January.
Furthermore, United may force the deal through to lower their wage bill, given Schweinsteiger’s £200k/week with little to show.
Victor Lindelof (In)
Talks of the signing a defender this winter have yet again taken preeminence following the injury of Marcos Rojo against Reading in the FA Cup.
With Eric Bailly on national duty with Ivory Coast, United are only left with Chris Smalling and Phil Jones as backup.
The two however won’t prove sufficient, more so with Manchester United still actively contending in all four competitions.
As such, Jose Mourinho may be forced to bring in the 22-year old from Benfica much earlier than premeditated.
Memphis Depay (Out)
After failing to establish himself as a regular starter under both Louis van Gaal and Jose Mourinho, Memphis Depay looks set for a move away from Old Trafford this winter.
The constant scrutiny and media attention that comes with adorning the revered number seven jersey didn’t help him settle either, and the 22-year old could join AC Milan who are currently in advanced talks with the club.
Written by Brian Humphrey
Follow Brian on Twitter @brihum
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