Manchester United face an important January transfer window as Michael Carrick looks for ways to improve a struggling side. Injuries, inconsistent finishing and limited depth have complicated the campaign, leaving the head coach with several problems to solve.
Benjamin Šeško‘s reported shin injury has raised concerns about United’s options at centre-forward, while Joshua Zirkzee has struggled to establish himself as a reliable source of goals. Meanwhile, the team needs greater intensity across the front line, particularly when opponents exploit spaces during transitions.
Carrick has indicated that United will consider opportunities in the winter market. Although defensive recruitment remains important, the club should examine attacking options who can address specific weaknesses without disrupting the team’s structure.
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Here are three players United could consider, based on their positions, reported performances and potential tactical value.
1. Serhou Guirassy, Borussia Dortmund
A dependable centre-forward should rank highly on United’s recruitment list, and Serhou Guirassy offers the experience of leading Dortmund’s attack in demanding domestic and European fixtures.
The Guinea international has the physical strength and sharp movement inside the penalty area. His ability to protect possession, contest aerial deliveries and finish chances could give United a more reliable focal point when Šeško cannot play.
In a 4-2-3-1 system, Guirassy could occupy central defenders and create space for the supporting attackers. United would need to assess Dortmund’s asking price, his age and salary demands before pursuing a deal. No verified January transfer fee or weekly wage has been established.
2. Giuliano Simeone, Atlético Madrid
Giuliano Simeone could offer United a different attacking profile, bringing defensive work rate and the ability to operate across the right flank.
The 23-year-old Argentine reportedly recorded two goals and two assists across nine La Liga appearances in 2026/27, alongside 18 tackles and six interceptions. Those figures suggest a player who contributes beyond his attacking output, although the statistics require confirmation against official competition records.
Under Diego Simeone, the Atletico forward has developed a demanding off-ball game, pressing opponents and tracking runners when possession changes hands. Such qualities could help United protect their full-backs while maintaining pressure high up the pitch.
Atletico’s willingness to negotiate would remain a major factor, and United should establish the likely fee before committing to a January pursuit.
3. Wesley França, Roma
Wesley offers another route to improving United’s attacking play, particularly through the width and crossing quality he brings from the flanks.
The Brazilian can operate at right-back or left-back, giving Carrick greater flexibility when injuries disrupt his preferred selection. His forward runs could stretch opposing defences and create additional passing lanes for United’s wingers and central attackers.
Reported Serie A data places the 23-year-old highly for accurate crosses and expected assists, although the precise percentile figures need verification. Roma’s reported £50 million valuation would make any January approach a substantial investment, especially with the defender contracted until June 2030.
United would need to establish whether Roma would negotiate mid-season and assess Wesley’s defensive suitability before making a formal offer.
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Guirassy addresses the immediate need for a dependable striker, while Simeone offers energy and defensive discipline on the right. Wesley, meanwhile, could improve attacking width and provide cover across both full-back positions.
United should assess Šeško’s recovery before deciding how much to invest in another centre-forward. If his absence continues, Guirassy becomes a more pressing option, provided Dortmund accept a reasonable fee, and the wage package suits the club’s structure.
Simeone would make sense if United need a forward who can contribute without the ball, although his value depends on his availability and the asking price. Wesley offers positional flexibility, but his recruitment would address a different problem and should not substitute for signing a natural goalscorer.
The strongest January plan would prioritise the position with the greatest immediate shortage, compare realistic alternatives and avoid committing substantial funds before checking each player’s availability.
