Our series of Premier League January transfer wrap-ups begins with a look at the business done by Louis van Gaal’s Manchester United.
Who arrived?
Once again there was no shortage of players linked to the Red Devils, but ultimately very few deals eventuated. Perpetual target Gareth Bale was heavily linked following the dismissal of Rafa Benitez from Real Madrid, yet in the end the Welsh star could not be tempted away from the Bernabau.
Barely four months after he was deemed surplus to requirements, Adnan Januzaj was hastily recalled from loan at Borussia Dortmund. It was a clear indication of the lack of width, pace and dribbling ability present in this current United squad.
The Red Devils were also linked with 18-year old Benfica midfielder Renato Sanches and CSKA Moscow and Nigeria striker Ahmed Musa, though neither move transpired. All-in-all their was a conspicuous lack of action from United, indicating to many a lack of trust between the front office and coach as to what players are needed.
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Who departed?
Given the quiet nature of their transfer window, very few players have left Old Trafford. The most notable departure was goalkeeper Victor Valdes, who has left on loan to Standard Liege. Valdes was a fine custodian in his prime for Barcelona, but failed to have a meaningful impact at United.
Now aged 34, it is unclear how much more the Spanish shot-stopper has to offer. A falling out with manager Louis van Gaal instantly ended his spell as United’s back-up goalkeeper.
Given his age, sizeable pay packet and lack of football over the past few seasons, Valdes might struggle to find suitors once his loan expires.
Midfielder Nick Powell was also loaned out to Hull following another campaign of indifferent form, as he struggled to grasp regular first team opportunities.
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Who can help the team?
The obvious answer to who can help the team most is a new manager. United are in desperate need of some fresh ideas, fresh thinking and renewed confidence. From a football point of view, they are too slow and predictable in possession.
Anthony Martial stands out due to his pace and willingness to take defenders on. Another player with the youngster’s skill set, pace, dribbling and a willingness to shoot would help the stuttering Red Devils to no end. However, such players are rare commodities in global football and usually come at a premium.
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Overall Rating
It is very difficult to view this transfer window in a positive light for United. After what was one of their worst months in nearly three decades, the team and the fans were in desperate need of some good news. Landing a big name signing could have provided that groundswell of optimism. Instead, van Gaal and Woodward have opted to carry on toiling with his heavily flawed and deficient squad for the remainder of the season.
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