Ruben Amorim has stuck by his infamous 3-4-2-1 system at Manchester United and it appears as though it is finally yielding results.

The Portuguese manager has been in charge at Old Trafford for a year now, and although things have not gone exactly to plan, his side have now gone unbeaten in their last four Premier League games.

Amorim has finally begun to settle on his best lineup. That has seen summer signings Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha lock down the two number 10 positions in his system, with Mason Mount providing excellent competition.

However, those two signings have ensured Bruno Fernandes will remain in his deeper pivot role, rather than closer to goal.

Where Fernandes is best suited under Amorim

It has certainly been a topic of hot debate in Amoirm’s year-long tenure in the hot seat at Old Trafford. Fernandes is a number 10 by trade, and played his best football as close to goal as possible, in and around the penalty box.

That season came in 2020/21, when he scored and assisted 29 Premier League goals in 37 games. He was one of the deadliest attackers in world football at that stage. So, you might think it is logical for Amorim to play him as a number 10.

Well, that is not how the United manager sees it. In fact, he explained that his skipper operates in the pivot because he “is the right man to start with the tempo of the play.”

United legend Paul Scholes sees it differently, and says “there is no doubt” Fernandes should be playing as a 10 because he “is the most creative player on the team.”

In 51 games under the tutelage of Amorim, the Red Devils’ number 8 has played 30 games in the pivot, and 21 as a number 10. That certainly shows just how much their manager favours him in a deeper role.

Interestingly, United have another player coming through in a similar mould to Fernandes, and it will be interesting to see where Amorim chooses to play him.

Man United's in-house Fernandes successor

It is clear that Fernandes is viewed as a pivot player by Amorim, despite Scholes’ view and the success he has achieved in previous seasons. With the two number 10 positions nailed down by Cunha and Mbeumo, players may have to adapt.

That could certainly be the case for United academy star Jack Moorhouse. The 19-year-old is currently on loan at Leyton Orient, but has previously impressed for the Red Devils’ youth sides.

It has been an impressive start to life in professional football for Moorhouse. Described as a “deadly” player by United academy page on X, Academy Scoop, the Republic of Ireland U21 international has played 14 games for Orient, scoring and assisting one goal apiece.

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As it happens, Moorhouse has already been described as someone who is “ideal for Amorim’s left 10 role” at United by football analyst Ben Mattinson. He has operated behind the striker more often than not for the U23s at the club, too, making five appearances in that role, scoring twice and assisting one.

Interestingly, he’s played a bit deeper for Orient this season, showing excellent versatility. He shone in a box-to-box role against Peterborough United, creating two chances and completing three out of three dribbles.

Moorhouse vs. Peterborough

Stat

Number

Touches

33

Pass accuracy

86%

Ball recoveries

6

Duels won

4/6

Dribbles completed

3/3

Key passes

2

Goals

1

Stats from Sofascore

There are certainly similarities between Moorhouse and Fernandes. Both creative midfielders, they can operate in advanced roles and a bit deeper. It would be intriguing to see where Amorim would utilise him in the first team.

One thing is for sure, the 19-year-old possesses great talent. If the Red Devils are looking for an in-house successor to their “Portuguese Magnifico,” they might be able to find him in their famous Carrington academy.

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Glasgow Rangers sporting director Kevin Thelwell made a bold move during the summer transfer window when he swooped to sign Youssef Chermiti from his former club Everton.

The Light Blues paid £8m to sign the Portugal U21 international from the Premier League side, which is the highest fee they have paid for a player since the £12m move for Tore Andre Flo in 2000.

Because of that transfer fee, Chermiti’s performances for Rangers his season have been under the spotlight, and he has failed to justify the huge outlay as of yet.

Pundit Michael Stewart described his finishing as “so poor” against Celtic in the League Cup semi-final earlier this month. Fellow pundit Ally McCoist also noted on TNT Sport that the striker is “showing nothing” to prove he was worth the fee paid for him.

Chermiti has scored one goal in 13 appearances in all competitions for the Light Blues this season, per Sofascore, which may be why pundits like Stewart and McCoist have been harsh on him.

However, the former Premier League flop is not the only summer signing who has struggled at the top end of the pitch this season, as Bojan Miovski has failed to live up to expectations.

Why Danny Rohl should drop Bojan Miovski

Danny Rohl should ruthlessly ditch the summer signing from Girona from the starting line-up because he struggled once again in the 3-0 win over Dundee last weekend in the Scottish Premiership.

The Macedonia international was handed the chance to led the line at Dens Park, but was removed by the German head coach at half-time after a dismal first-half display, with zero shots and two out of nine duels won, per Sofascore.

Miovski was signed from Girona for a fee of up to £4.2m and arrived with a big reputation in Scotland, thanks to his form for Aberdeen in the past, as shown in the graphic below.

However, pundit Charlie Mulgrew recently noted that there is more pressure on him at Ibrox. The ex-Celtic defender said: “When you play for Aberdeen, you can get away with not scoring for three or four weeks. At Rangers, you don’t get six or seven games to find your feet. You’re in the spotlight and you need to hit the ground running, and that’s why there are question marks around him.”

Miovski, who was described as “non-existent” by one Rangers podcaster, has struggled to deal with the pressure of leading the line for the Gers, as shown by his form this season.

Bojan Miovski – 25/26

Premiership

Europa League

Appearances

8

4

Goals

1

0

Minutes per goal

506

N/A

Big chances missed

3

1

Big chances created

0

0

Assists

0

0

Ground duel success rate

32%

44%

Aerial duel success rate

29%

17%

Stats via Sofascore

As you can see in the table above, the left-footed marksman has not offered much in the way of quality in front of goal or reliability out of possession in the Scottish Premiership or the Europa League.

Miovski should be in the prime years of his career at the age of 26, but his performances for the Scottish giants suggest that the opposite is true, as he has struggled badly in comparison to his previous form in the division, with just one league goal.

This is why Rohl should ditch him from the starting XI, and possibly even from the club in the January transfer window unless he can turn his form around in the next few weeks.

However, as aforementioned, Chermiti has also failed to impress since his £8m move from Everton, which is why the manager may need to get creative with his team selection.

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With this in mind, Rohl should ruthlessly drop Miovski from the starting line-up by unleashing Mikey Moore in a brand-new role as a centre-forward at Ibrox.

Why Rangers should play Mikey Moore as a striker

Rangers signed the England youth international on a season-long loan from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer and he endured a difficult start to life at Ibrox.

The 18-year-old forward did not provide a goal or an assist in his first five outings in the Premiership, but he has registered a goal and an assist in his last four matches, per Sofascore, which shows that the youngster has been improving.

Moore started as a right-midfielder in a 4-2-3-1 against Dundee at Dens Park last weekend. However, it was by drifting into a central position that he created and scored his first goal of the season.

The teenage whiz looked far more comfortable playing quickly and directly in a central position through the build-up to this goal, which suggests that Rohl could get more out of him by playing the Spurs loanee in a new role.

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In fact, his overall career statistics, for Spurs at first-team and academy level, indicate that he is more likely to deliver goals and assists when playing in a central position.

Mikey Moore’s career (U18, U21, and first-team)

Position (appearances)

Goals

Assists

Left wing (19)

4

6

Attacking midfield (10)

6

4

Centre-forward (7)

11

4

Right wing (10)

1

0

Left midfield (1)

0

1

Right midfield (1)

1

0

Stats via Transfermarkt

As you can see in the table above, Moore has scored 17 goals and provided eight assists in 17 starts as a striker or as an attacking midfielder, whulst his numbers as a winger, on either flank, are not as impressive.

With this in mind, the English attacker could thrive if unleashed as the striker in the team ahead of Miovski and Chermiti, given his goal at Dens Park and his record for Spurs at youth level.

Danilo played as the number ten against Dundee, behind Miovski, and the Brazilian could interchange roles with Moore as a fluid front two in that 4-2-3-1 system, with both players capable of switching between striker and attacking midfield throughout matches.

That could cause problems for opposition defenders, who could get confused about who to step out to or who to mark, and create some interesting dynamics in the final third when Rangers are building attacks.

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Therefore, Rohl should ruthlessly drop Miovski from the starting line-up in order to unleash Moore in this new role, as it could be an exciting tactical change for the Light Blues.

Sunderland are sitting inside the Champions League slots and could now be set to put forward a record bid for a European star that would represent a major shift in mentality at the Stadium of Light.

Regis Le Bris has continued to thrive in the North East after leading the Black Cats to the Premier League last season, and his side emerged with major credit over the weekend after securing a last-gasp 2-2 draw at home to Arsenal.

Despite the visitors defence being near-impenetrable in the top-flight before kick-off, Sunderland managed to carve their way through Mikel Arteta’s backline on several occasions.

More importantly, the Black Cats withstood immense pressure from the Gunners, throwing bodies on the line to secure a valuable point that keeps them on course for an excellent campaign as a newly-promoted outfit.

Dan Ballard played a significant role in helping Sunderland claim the result. However, the Northern Ireland international has stressed that his teammates have a long way to go before achieving their initial target of retaining their place in the division.

He told Match of the Day: “It’s a good morale boost to show we can go against a really top team – probably one of the best in Europe at the minute – and delighted with that. But it is just one point and we’ve got a lot of work to do to achieve our goal of staying up this year.”

Of course, Ballard’s comments are fairly routine for a side who are exceeding expectations. Still, Sunderland have definitely shown a healthy sense of ambition this term, and appear on course to achieve an excellent points total if they can maintain their current form.

With that in mind, they could now be set to target a record signing who would change the landscape of what could be to come at the Stadium of Light.

Sunderland could submit record offer for Fermin Lopez

According to reports in Spain, Sunderland could be set to submit an offer of over £70 million to sign Barcelona’s Fermin Lopez, contingent on whether they secure a dream Champions League slot this season.

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Given their financial structure allows Le Bris to compete with elite sides across the continent, there is now internal debate at the Catalan giants over whether to accept a money-spinning sum for one of their rising stars, who would instantly be Sunderland’s most expensive signing ever.

Five similar players to Fermin Lopez (FBRef)

Leroy Sane

Galatasaray

Serge Gnabry

Bayern Munich

Christian Pulisic

AC Milan

Luis Diaz

Bayern Munich

Dani Olmo

Barcelona

Labelled “sensational” by Hansi Flick, the attacking midfielder has already notched six goals and four assists in 11 matches this season, and he is also capable of playing on the left flank or in central midfield.

Sunderland have bid for the new Chemsdine Talbi

Talks are at an initial stage and Barcelona are yet to give a definitive signal whether they are going to let him depart, though it is clear that Sunderland have given them something to think about ,and a high-profile transfer saga could be set to follow.

Manchester United’s 1-0 defeat to 10-man Everton in the Premier League on Monday night highlights the job Ruben Amorim still has on his hands at Old Trafford.

Kiernan Drewsbury-Hall’s effort in the first half was enough to secure all three points for David Moyes’ men, which will no doubt leave the Red Devils boss scratching his head.

His men spent 77 minutes with a one-man advantage, but none of his first-team squad could pop up with the goods to extend their unbeaten run in England’s top-flight.

Despite spending £200m on a new attacking trio over the summer, the Red Devils looked largely toothless in front of goal, as seen by their tally of 100% big chances missed.

However, the manager will desperately want added reinforcements in the upcoming January window to aid him in his quest for success during his time at Old Trafford.

United’s hunt for added attacking signings in January

Over the last couple of weeks, Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo has been identified as just one player whom United are targeting for the January transfer window.

The Ghanaian international has been in remarkable form during the early stages of 2025/26, with the winger already netting six goals and three assists in just 11 appearances for the Cherries.

However, Amorim’s men aren’t alone in the pursuit of the 25-year-old, with Arsenal and Liverpool just two other top-flight clubs seeking a £65m move for his signature.

He’s not the only player on the Red Devils’ shortlist, with Real Madrid star Vinícius Júnior a player who INEOS are potentially considering a move for in the coming months.

According to The Mirror, the Brazilian international could leave the LaLiga giants in the coming months, with the forward having just 19 months left on his current deal – leading to keen interest from the Red Devils.

It also states his recent bust-up with senior members at the Bernabeu could see them cash in on his services to avoid losing him for nothing in the near future.

How Vinicius Junior compares to Bryan Mbeumo

As part of their £200m spending spree in the summer, United forked out a reported £71m on the services of forward Bryan Mbeumo from fellow Premier League side Brentford.

The Cameroonian generated huge excitement within the Red Devils fanbase after netting 20 times in the league last season, with the 26-year-old already making an excellent start to life at Old Trafford.

He’s already netted five goals in his first 12 league outings for the club, with such a tally currently making him the top goalscorer within Amorim’s squad.

However, his showing against Everton yesterday was one to forget, with the attacker struggling to provide the goods amid the absence of Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha.

Mbeumo was only able to register a single effort on target whilst also failing to complete any of his three attempted dribbles – further highlighting his lack of impact in the final third.

There’s no doubt he’s been a shrewd addition to date, but ultimately, he hasn’t been able to get near the levels produced by Vinicius during his opening matches in LaLiga.

When comparing the pair’s respective stats this campaign, the Brazilian has massively outperformed Mbeumo – showcasing why he’d be a better addition for the Red Devils.

Vinicius, who’s been dubbed the “best in the world” by Thierry Henry, has racked up more combined goals and assists this season – subsequently handing Amorim a more threatening option in front of goal.

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He’s also registered more key passes and more passes into the final third per 90, with such numbers allowing those around him to be on the end of more chances in attacking areas.

How Vinicius & Mbeumo compare in 2025/26

Statistics (per 90)

Vinicius

Mbeumo

Games played

13

12

Goals & assists

9

6

Progressive carries

8.9

2.8

Progressive passes

4.8

2.7

Pass accuracy

80%

73%

Key passes

2.9

1.7

Passes into final third

1.9

1.5

Take-on success

38%

33%

Carries into final third

2.9

1.9

Stats via FBref

The Brazilian’s all-round dominance over Mbeumo is further highlighted in his higher take-on success and greater tally of carries into the final third per 90, which showcases his ability to go alone when needed.

A player of Vini Jr’s quality would cost a small fortune in today’s market, with such a move likely to break the club’s current transfer record of £89m paid for Paul Pogba.

However, it would be a deal worth every penny, with the winger having all of the tools to take the United frontline to the next level for many years to come under Amorim’s guidance.

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One European club is now ready to launch a move to sign a big-money Liverpool star in 2026, despite facing competition from the Saudi Pro League.

Slot expects "aggressive" Leeds vs Liverpool

Despite Wednesday night’s timid draw against Sunderland at Anfield, Arne Slot was in good spirits ahead of Liverpool’s next game against Leeds United this weekend. The Reds will be looking to stretch their mini-unbeaten run to three games in the same week, but must also get back to winning ways after Wednesday.

On paper, a trip to newly-promoted Leeds looks routine and once upon a time it was exactly that for the Reds. Those days, for the time being, are gone, however, and the Premier League champions are now set to square off against a side who could physically outmatch them once again.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Slot admitted that he expects to face an “aggressive” Leeds side: “Yesterday I looked at Leeds v Chelsea and I thought I saw a Liverpool game; Chelsea conceding a set-piece and for the third goal making a big, big error where they conceded a goal from. [It was] very difficult for them.

“Either Leeds went very aggressive to one-v-one or they went to a low block and it was really hard to create chances. It’s not only difficult for us, that playing style, it’s difficult for many teams – including us.”

It’s been the story of Liverpool’s season so far. Whenever they’ve encountered physicality, the Premier League champions have simply been bullied.

Something had to change and that has seen Mohamed Salah sacrificed. The struggling Egyptian has not started either of Liverpool’s last two games and reports suggest he could yet leave the club in 2026.

Galatasaray ready to launch Salah bid

According to reports in Spain, Galatasaray are now ready to launch their bid to sign Salah next year. The Turkish giants are looking to take full advantage of the winger’s situation and will reportedly aim to beat clubs in Saudi Arabia to his signature.

Whether Liverpool are willing to sell Salah remains to be seen, though. The Anfield icon only signed a new two-year deal last season, which is set to expire in 2027, but they must ask themselves if he is now past the peak of his powers.

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Former centre-back, turned Sky Sports pundit, Jamie Carragher certainly believes that’s the case, recently saying: “The catalyst for Liverpool at the very start of the run in 2018 with Jürgen Klopp was Alisson, Van Dijk and Salah.

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“Alisson’s injured a lot now, he doesn’t play so much. But you watch Van Dijk now, not the same player, and Mo Salah looks like his legs have gone.”

The 33-year-old will be desperate to prove Carragher wrong and make his £21m-a-year contract worthwhile even if that is to be from the bench following Slot’s recent ruthlessness.

Huge Gakpo upgrade: £70m "superstar" now keen to join Liverpool in January

Newcastle United scouts have now been spotted keeping close tabs on an impressive young defender, who’s also reportedly attracted the interest of Bayern Munich.

Newcastle sends scouts to watch teenage star

It’s been a frustrating campaign for the Magpies and defeat in the Tyne-Wear derby courtesy of an own goal from record signing Nick Woltemade just about summed things up on Sunday afternoon.

The Magpies’ struggles follow another tough summer transfer window, in which they were handed rejection after rejection before welcoming Yoane Wissa, Jacob Ramsey, Anthony Elanga and Woltemade.

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As things stand, only Woltemade has truly made his mark out of those arrivals, however, and it’s no major shock that those at St James’ Park welcomed a new sporting director in the form of Ross Wilson earlier this season. They simply must do better on the recruitment front when January arrives.

If the new transfer chief is to make his mark next month, then PIF should hand him the funds to improve Newcastle’s defensive and midfield depth.

The likes of Giovani Lo Celso and Kees Smit have already emerged as potential January targets, but it remains to be seen whether Newcastle are in a strong enough position to welcome their targets, particularly the latter.

It looks as though Wilson’s focus will be on adding youthful exuberance to Eddie Howe’s side, be it through Smit or by signing Atalanta defender Honest Ahanor.

According to TeamTalk, Newcastle scouts have been spotted watching Ahanor and could race to secure the 17-year-old’s signature alongside Premier League rivals as well as Bayern Munich.

"Strong" Ahanor could become Botman successor

Having already signed Malick Thiaw in the summer, Newcastle now need to find a long-term partner for their impressive defender. And that’s unlikely to be Dan Burn or Fabian Schar, who are both 33 years old, or the injury-prone Sven Botman, who has once again struggled to remain fit this season.

Instead, the Magpies should turn towards Ahanor, who is represented by the same agency as Sandro Tonali. The teenage star can play centre-back, left-back and left-midfield and is quickly becoming one of the most impressive young defenders in European football.

League stats 25/26 P90

Thiaw

Ahanor

Minutes

1,083

552

Progressive Passes

4.83

2.46

Tackles Won

0.83

1.15

Ball Recoveries

3.92

2.79

Dubbed “strong” by Como scout Ben Mattinson, Ahanor is reportedly happy at Atalanta but an offer in the region of €60m (£53m) is likely to force their hand next year.

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The 17-year-old wouldn’t make an instant impact in Tyneside – he’s very much one for the future – but he could become one of Newcastle’s most important signings if he arrives and reaches his impressive potential.

The next Cabaye: Newcastle open talks to sign "unbelievable" £22m star

Bruno Fernandes – Manchester United’s get out of jail free card.

How often, with the Red Devils seeking a moment of inspiration, a moment of magic, does the Portuguese genius pull a rabbit out of the hat, having come to the aid of a succession of managers in his almost six-year stay at Old Trafford.

As captain, the 31-year-old has managed to keep this sinking ship afloat in recent seasons, notably ending 2024/25 with 38 goals and assists in all competitions, having looked a man possessed under compatriot Ruben Amorim.

Even in a deep-lying role this time around under the ex-Sporting CP, Fernandes is still at the centre of everything good about this current United side – but for how much longer?

What Bruno Fernandes said about his Man Utd future

The United skipper produced one of his finest moments of the campaign in the 4-4 thriller with Bournemouth last week, rifling home a free-kick to drag the hosts back level in that topsy-turvy contest at the Theatre of Dreams.

Even while ultimately left to settle for a point, there was an air of positivity in the aftermath of that game, with Amorim appearing to have finally taken the handbrake off following a subtle switch to a 4-3-3 set-up.

As is the way in the modern Manchester United era, however, the balloon was burst somewhat soon after, with comments from Fernandes’ prior interview with Canal11 filtering through.

Having previously spoken openly about coming close to joining Saudi side Al Hilal over the summer, ahead of his 300th United appearance, the midfielder was far more explosive with his latest comments, accusing the club of wanting him to sell him, but lacking the “courage” to do so.

The £300k-per-week playmaker – who also hinted at having received offers to leave in 2024 – then flirted with the idea of winning titles in Spain, alongside revealing a possible desire to return to Italy, having previously played in Serie A with Udinese.

With just 18 months left on his contract, Fernandes’ future will be a major talking point now heading into 2026. If he does depart, a suitable replacement needs to be found.

Man Utd could turn to the new 'Keane & Scholes' to replace Fernandes

Even without the uncertainty over Fernandes, the midfield unit has been a real priority for INEOS regardless, with the club having been linked with a move for Brighton’s Carlos Baleba over the summer.

The suggestion is that the Seagulls star remains a target heading into the new year, although he has since been joined by England and Nottingham Forest sensation, Elliot Anderson, with the ex-Newcastle United man now attracting notable interest.

Valued at potentially somewhere in the region of £100m, the 22-year-old wouldn’t come cheap, although he could represent the perfect, long-term successor to Fernandes in that deeper midfield role.

His quality has been on show in the early months of this season, in particular, with Anderson appearing to nail down a starting role alongside Declan Rice at international level, ahead of the upcoming World Cup.

This is no safe and steady Jordan Henderson or Conor Gallagher style partner for Rice, however, with the Geordie superstar looking like a player of all-round brilliance, both in and out of possession.

Indeed, in the Premier League this season, the one-time Bristol Rovers loanee ranks in the top 4% of midfielders for progressive passes and the top 4% for successful take-ons per 90, as per FBref, highlighting how he can both pick out a pass, while also gliding his way up the pitch at will.

There is steel to match the silk, however, with the £100m man also ranking in the top 18% for tackles and the top 7% for blocks made, with those traits having been on the show as he dazzled in the 2-2 draw with United at the City Ground not too long ago.

Anderson vs Man Utd (01/11/25)

Stat

Record

Minutes

90

Touches

84

Pass accuracy

75%

Key passes

3

Possession lost

25

Dribbles

2/2

Tackles won

1/1

Recoveries

14

Total duels won

7/14

Stats via Sofascore

Comparisons to figures of the past might be cheap and unhelpful, but glowing reports are now flooding in regarding the discarded Newcastle man, with talkSPORT’s Max Scott even going as far as to suggest that he is “a bit of Roy Keane, Paul Scholes and Zinedine Zidane all rolled into one”.

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Whether he has the real match-winning, game-changing quality is another matter, although with United now boasting an array of forwards who have somewhat lifted the burden on Fernandes, there is no expectation for Anderson to directly fill the shoes of the Portuguese talisman.

Instead, the fleet-footed Englishman could provide greater balance and control in Amorim’s midfield department, with there only so long that the club can go on relying on agent of chaos, Fernandes, to bail them out of trouble.

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The bombshell news broke earlier this week that Premier League sensation, Antoine Semenyo, is likely to be on the move next month. Unfortunately for those at Manchester United, however, the Ghanaian looks to be heading to the Etihad.

Yes, despite suggestions that United had been one of the frontrunners for the 25-year-old’s signature, it would appear that ex-Bristol City man has been swayed by the pull of Pep Guardiola and co, with a £65m deal now set to be struck.

Such developments come at a time when the Red Devils have been left looking desperately short on attacking options, a fact that was no more apparent than in Friday’s narrow win over Newcastle United.

With Ruben Amorim chopping and changing his side in the dying embers, the hosts were left with a forward line that contained Patrick Dorgu on one flank, and Diogo Dalot as the highest point on the opposite side, with the absence of Amad and Bryan Mbeumo keenly felt in that hard-fought encounter.

That being said, last season’s losing Europa League finalists still managed to get the job done against the Magpies, with there certainly reason for positivity among the Old Trafford faithful.

Man Utd's best performers vs Newcastle

It would be remiss to begin this section without mentioning that man Dorgu, with the 21-year-old Dane looking much improved in his new role down the right flank in that promising first-half.

Having scored three of his five Lecce goals while operating off the right, as per Transfermarkt, the youngster showcased why that perhaps should be his permanent home in a United shirt, rifling in his first goal for the club in stunning fashion against Eddie Howe’s side.

The January arrival also saw another effort denied by the sprawling Aaron Ramsdale, while also picking out Benjamin Sesko with a delightful reverse pass early on, only for the Slovenian striker to squander the opening.

Dorgu was then the star attraction on a night all about Amorim’s young guns, with fellow 2025 signing, Ayden Heaven, also putting in a commanding display at the heart of the backline, even amid so much change around him.

Signed for just £1m, the 19-year-old continues to make that deal look such a coup, having won 100% of his duels on the night, as per Sofascore, while boasting a 94% pass accuracy rate.

Like the returning Lisandro Martinez alongside him, Heaven was central to United earning all three points, with the Englishman more than seizing his chance in the absence of Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt.

At the other end of the pitch, too, the loss of Mbeumo, Amad and captain Bruno Fernandes has allowed another leading light to emerge, with Amorim having a new attacking figurehead to hang his hat on.

Man Utd already have a bigger talent than Semenyo

With United’s absentee list worsening following Mason Mount’s withdrawal at half-time, it appeared almost inevitable that the home side would drift toward yet another defeat, having been forced to cling on amid a frantic second-half at the Theatre of Dreams.

There was encouragingly, however, a real grit and fight shown by those in red, with that will to win perhaps epitomised best by summer signing, Matheus Cunha, in his number ten berth.

Operating both centrally and off the left, the 26-year-old was so often the driving force for United in an attacking sense, having drawn a save himself from Ramsdale with an effort from the angle, while flashing a handful of attempts wide.

Yes, there is an erratic quality to his game, but time and again, the Brazilian is at the heart of the action, showcasing why journalist Samuel Luckhurst has previously described him as a “maverick” and a “workhorse” following his promising start to life in Manchester.

While club-led comparisons to Eric Cantona may be unhelpful and somewhat hyperbolic, a closer similarity may well be to fellow South American ‘maverick’, Carlos Tevez, with the Argentine having also been such a relentless presence in Sir Alex Ferguson’s feared forward line.

Operating alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney, the ex-West Ham United man wasn’t always the star attraction in his two-year stay at the club, although he was just as crucial to that glittering period of success, racking up 48 goals and assists in 99 games in total in all competitions.

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Cunha, in the modern day, has been somewhat overshadowed himself by the goalscoring form of both Mbeumo and Fernandes, but as was evident on Friday evening, he can be equally as instrumental, registering one key pass and successfully completing four of his six attempted dribbles.

Cunha vs Newcastle

Stat

Record

Minutes

90

Touches

52

Pass accuracy

81%

Shots

3

Key passes

1

Dribbles

4/6

Total duels won

5/15

Recoveries

3

Interceptions

3

Stats via Sofascore

While Semenyo might have been earmarked as another option off that left flank, with Cunha repurposed more centrally, the ex-Wolverhampton Wanderers hero showcased why he should be a nailed-on starter in his preferred role, having begun to pick up where he left off at Molineux.

Only three goals have come his way in a United shirt, although the £62.5m addition did record 15 league goals last term, after hitting 12 the year before that. For comparison, Semenyo scored just 11 and eight goals, respectively, across the last two top-flight campaigns.

The Bournemouth star’s stock is soaring, but it is Cunha’s ceiling that appears to be even higher.

At a time of such chaos again under Amorim, United’s new Tevez will have to shoulder much of the attacking burden. There’s no denying he’ll relish that.

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Eddie Howe’s stance has shifted, with a number of injuries to key personnel in recent weeks forcing Newcastle United to place fresh emphasis on the January transfer window.

Tino Livramento is out for two months, and Fabian Schar has injured his knee and is targeting a return before the end of the campaign. Dan Burn and Emil Krafth are also sidelined.

A crowded fixture calendar has done anything but help matters, but Howe is now determined to make this a successful year for the Magpies, and that might require some help from afar.

Defence is the priority, but United have their eye on various areas of the pitch. In December, technical director Ross Wilson said Newcastle have money to spend, albeit far less than last summer, having invested heavily and now been hit by PSR restrictions.

Where Newcastle plan to invest this month

So, Newcastle do want to add a defender or two to their squad, especially if they hope to wade deep into FA Cup and Champions League competitions while keeping apace with the top-four pack in the Premier League.

More defensive depth is needed, for sure, but the Toon also need more firepower in the final third. Nick Woltemade is suffering a mid-season dip, and Yoane Wissa, 29, hasn’t got going after joining from Brentford for £55m last summer, with injury hampering him across the early months.

Howe knows his side cannot afford to peter out this season, so while the backline takes precedence, that hasn’t stopped him and Wilson from assessing the market for a tempting attacking signing.

According to Sports Boom, Newcastle and Tottenham Hotspur are leading the race for Canadian striker Jonathan David, whose move to Juventus on a free transfer last year has not gone to plan.

The former LOSC Lille star would only leave if the Old Lady received an ‘irresistible’ offer.

David shares a stylistic likeness to Alexander Isak, who left Newcastle for Liverpool in a record-breaking £125m deal last year.

The Tyneside outfit have missed their free-scoring forward, but in David, they could land a new version.

How Jonathan David would play for Howe

David was one of the most clinical strikers in France across his five seasons in Ligue 1 with Lille, scoring 109 goals from 232 appearances, assisting 30 goals too.

In France, he was a “superstar”, as described by international teammate Jonathan Osorio, a deadly finisher with electric movement.

Having moved to Juventus last summer, the 26-year-old has been out of sorts, but he’s still a top player and, like Isak, isw punching below his weight class.

By moving to Newcastle, perhaps David could take that number-nine vacancy that has not quite been filled this season.

His time at Juventus has been up and down, but David has scored in each of his past two Serie A and Champions League matches, and entrusted with a starring role at Newcastle, he could return to the kind of form that drew so many plaudits in France.

One of David’s most underrated strengths is his crisp and clever passing. The Canadian forward is more creative than most, but not at the expense of fluency in general build-up sequences.

His pace and dynamism combine elements of Woltemade and Isak’s game, but he does share many properties with the Sweden international, and in this, he could become Newcastle’s new version.

Jonathan David vs Alexander Isak (past 12 months)

Stats (per 90)

David

Isak

Goals scored

0.44

0.46

Assists

0.27

0.09

Touches (att pen)

5.85

5.13

Shots taken

2.55

2.77

Shot-creating actions

3.53

1.85

Pass completion (%)

81.8

75.4

Progressive passes

2.55

2.59

Progressive carries

1.67

2.22

Successful take-ons

0.61

0.74

Ball recoveries

2.99

1.71

Aerial duels won

0.68

0.79

Data via FBref

As you can see, Isak has probably been edged in the metrics by David over the past year. The Liverpool man might have endured a rocky start to his new career, but he’s still one of the finest forwards in the world, and he rode into Arne Slot’s system on the crest of a wave.

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David, let’s not forget, hasn’t been in the finest form since joining Juventus, but he’s still a talented and dangerous striker with a wide-ranging skillset.

His progressiveness, both on the ball and in ferrying it forward, could bear dividends for Newcastle, whose attacking line has been out of kilter this season.

Recent weeks have shown us for the first time this season that Newcastle really do miss their former talisman. Isak was a one-of-a-kind striker for the St. James’ Park side, and this period of adaptation has had an unwanted effect on fluency and verve in the final third.

Woltemade has plenty of talent, but he’s inconsistent and slow. In David, Newcastle would land a ready-made goalscorer whose playing style would allow Howe to implement his tried-and-tested system.

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Nottingham Forest have now made contact over a deal for a “phenomenal” striker, who is likely to leave his club in the January transfer window.

Forest searching for new striker after Chris Wood blow

Chris Wood is yet to make an appearance since the arrival of Sean Dyche back in October, and having now undergone surgery, the centre-forward is set for an extended spell on the treatment table.

Writing on Instagram, Wood said: “The Christmas I didn’t expect, you can never know what football throws at you,

“From the highs of last season to now the battles and the lows personally of this season. You have to be ready for anything.

“Truly gutting and frustrating that I’ll be on the sideline for another period of time. It’s what’s needed to come back stronger and better to help my team-mates do the job needed in the Premier League and in Europe.”

As such, Dyche is left with the likes of Igor Jesus and Arnaud Kalimuendo to choose from at striker, but the latter could be leaving the City Ground this month, as concrete talks have now been held with Bundesliga outfit Eintracht Frankfurt.

Consequently, the manager could be left a little light on options at striker, meaning he may need to bring in a new option, and Nottingham Forest have now made contact over a deal for Wolverhampton Wanderers star Jorgen Strand Larsen.

Strand Larsen is now deemed likely to exit Molineux this month, given that the Old Gold are almost certainly going to be relegated from the Premier League, and Forest have now lodged an initial enquiry.

A deal could be on the expensive side, however, with it being revealed Wolves are planning to hold out for a fee of £40m, and forking out the full asking price would make the Norwegian the most expensive signing in Nottingham Forest’s history.

"Phenomenal" Strand Larsen needs to leave Wolves

The 25-year-old isn’t having the best of campaigns, having only scored one Premier League goal, but it must be noted he is playing in an extremely poor side, with Wolves collecting just three points all season.

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Previously, the 24-time Norway international has proven he is capable of delivering in the Premier League, chipping in with 14 goals and four assists in 35 matches last season.

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The Wolves striker also played a key role in his side avoiding relegation last season, as noted by former manager Vitor Pereira, who said back in March: “Jorgen was phenomenal out there. His ability to find the net at critical moments has revitalized our team and given us a renewed sense of hope as we fight to stay in the Premier League.”

Strand Larsen definitely needs to leave Wolves, as his previous exploits suggest he is too good to be playing in the Championship, and the centre-forward could help fire Nottingham Forest to safety.