Manchester United’s difficult start to the season has increased the pressure on Michael Carrick, with the club struggling to turn their summer recruitment into consistent Premier League results. One win from seven league matches has left the Red Devils with little room for further mistakes, while their Carabao Cup exit against Brighton has added to the frustration.
Carrick enjoyed a strong interim spell last season, guiding United to third place and Champions League qualification. However, the current campaign has taken a different turn, exposing weaknesses that the club must address before the situation deteriorates further.
The January transfer window offers an opportunity to strengthen the squad, although finding the right players midway through the season could prove difficult. United need greater defensive depth, particularly across the full-back positions, while additional attacking options could help them become more dangerous in the final third.
According to Football365, in a report by Joe Williams, United are monitoring two players who could cost a combined £90 million. However, both clubs appear reluctant to sanction mid-season departures.
Manchester United Transfer News: United track £90m double deal
Football Insider reports that Manchester United are paying serious attention to Wesley França, the Brazilian right-back who has established himself at Roma under Gian Piero Gasperini. The Italian club reportedly values the 23-year-old at around £50 million and has little appetite for losing an important defender during the campaign.
Wesley offers pace, attacking intent and the ability to operate on either flank. His reported performances this season strengthen the case for United’s interest. Across six Serie A appearances, including five starts, he has played 433 minutes, recorded one assist, completed 88% of his passes and created 12 chances. In three Champions League appearances, he has played 239 minutes and registered five successful tackles.
His Roma contract runs until June 2030, giving the Italian side a strong negotiating position.
United are reportedly monitoring Atletico Madrid forward Giuliano Simeone as well. The Argentine is valued at approximately £40 million, but Atletico have little reason to release him in January. Diego Simeone relies on his son, making negotiations particularly difficult for the Premier League side.
The combined asking prices would take United’s potential spending to £90 million, excluding wages and other transfer costs. No completed agreement has been reported, and a summer move appears more realistic for both players.
Would delaying Wesley’s arrival put Carrick at greater risk?
United should make a serious attempt to sign Wesley in January, even if Roma demand the full £50 million. Carrick needs a specialist full-back who can provide natural width, recover quickly and support attacks without leaving the defence exposed.
Noussair Mazraoui remains an important right-back, while Diogo Dalot’s versatility has helped cover United’s problems on the opposite flank. However, relying on the same options throughout a demanding campaign risks leaving Carrick short of solutions when injuries or poor performances strike.
Wesley’s 12 chances created in six league appearances suggest he could improve United’s attacking variety. His 88% passing accuracy under Gasperini further indicates that he can contribute to controlled possession rather than simply relying on pace.
Still, spending £50 million in January would carry considerable risk. United must assess whether Wesley can adapt quickly to English football and whether Roma would negotiate at all. The club should prioritise defensive reinforcements before pursuing Simeone, whose £40 million valuation represents a separate commitment.
Waiting until summer could leave Carrick exposed during a season already marked by disappointing results. If Roma refuse to sell, United need a credible alternative rather than allowing one target to dictate their entire recruitment strategy.
