Following Manchester United’s elimination from European competition this season, the club is anticipating multiple departures from Erik ten Hag’s first-team squad in the upcoming January transfer window, as per sources informed by ESPN.
United’s exit from the Champions League, sealed with a 1-0 defeat to Bayern Munich, confirmed their bottom-place finish in Group A and ruled them out of the Europa League contention.
With no European football in the new year and only the Premier League and FA Cup to focus on, sources indicate that Ten Hag is willing to streamline his squad.
Jadon Sancho is expected to depart, having not played since August following a public dispute with Ten Hag.
While the Dutchman hinted at a potential return for Sancho if he apologises, sources suggest it’s highly likely the England forward will leave in January if a suitable offer is received.
Midfielder Donny van de Beek, who has only played twice this season, is also available for transfer. There is reported interest from Spain and Germany, and while United prefers a permanent deal, they are open to loan offers.
Discussions are slated to occur with Tottenham regarding Sergio Reguilón, who joined Manchester United on loan on deadline day. The loan agreement contains a break clause, enabling Reguilón to return to Spurs in January. However, United is keen on assessing the severity of Luke Shaw’s hamstring injury suffered against Bayern before making any decisions.
Second-choice left-back Tyrell Malacia has faced setbacks in recovering from a knee injury and is not anticipated to return until the new year.
United, according to a source, is open to offers for Anthony Martial, whose contract expires in the summer. The club is also anticipating interest in Raphaël Varane and Casemiro, contingent on whether the players express a desire to leave. Varane recently made his first start in over a month against Bayern.
With Financial Fair Play concerns, offloading players in January would alleviate pressure ahead of the next transfer window. The reduced number of games in the second half of the campaign may limit first-team opportunities for young players Hannibal, Amad, and Facundo Pellistri.
Though Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s 25% investment is yet to be officially confirmed, a source mentioned to ESPN that it’s “business as usual” in preparation for the January window. There remains optimism that Ratcliffe’s investment could be announced before Christmas, despite delays.