Following the dismissal of Erik Ten Hag, Ruben Amorim’s appointment as Man United head coach has cast a shadow on Manchester United’s transfer policy and recruitment strategy over the years. The lack of tactical robustness, poor physical fitness and technical deficiencies has come to light as United’s current crop of players have struggled to adjust to the technical and physical demands of Amorim’s 3-4-3 tactical setup.
The Red’s midfield was overwhelmed in the 2-0 home defeat to Newcastle, with Casemiro and Eriksen struggling to physically compete against the high-energy midfield trio of Joelinton, Guimaraes, and Tonali. Additionally, the squad is lacking energetic and dynamic wingbacks with the technical quality required to thrive in Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-3 formation. Although January transfers are often challenging, there are a few potential options Man United might explore in this window.
Patrick Dorgu
The 20-year-old Danish left-back has been a revelation since earning a promotion to Lecce’s first team and has had a solid campaign this season with three goals from 3.13 xG. Dorgu’s physical attributes are a standout quality with 60% of his attempted tackles won in the Serie A this season. His 5.10 ball recoveries per 90 in the league this season is also complimented by his quality on the ball with a 77.6% pass accuracy. Dorgu is a young and dynamic left-back capable of holding the LWB position for United for years to come. With a market value of $30 million, Dorgu would be good business for United
Randal Kolo Muani
The French striker has been out of favor with PSG manager, Luis Enrique with multiple clubs exploring the situation. Far from being the finished article, the 26-year-old’s versatility could play a vital role in Amorim’s 3-4-3. Muani can play across every position in the frontline and possesses the technical quality required to operate as an inside forward for United. With Zirkzee and Rashford potentially leaving this January, Kolo Muani could be a significant upgrade for the Manchester club if Ruben Amorim could get the Frenchman back to his best.
Douglas Luiz
The Brazilian midfielder’s move to Juventus has been a nightmare with the former Aston Villa man open to a return to the Premier League. With proven Premier League experience, the 26-year-old could be a direct fit for the physical and technical demands Ruben Amorim demands from his central midfielders. Douglas Luiz last season with Aston Villa was an impressive one with nine goals and five assists in the 2023/24 Premier League season. He had created 53 chances with a pass accuracy of 89.4%, also excelling out of possession with 184 ball recoveries and 23 possessions won in the final third. The Brazilian midfielder could add a much needed aggression to United’s central midfield.
