Manchester United Eyes Two Loan Moves Amid Seven Player Exits

Manchester United is preparing to confirm two loan transfers ahead of the January transfer deadline, which closes on January 29, 2024, at 17:00 GMT. While the club is set to see several players exit, the likelihood of new signings remains low. The situation has unfolded as United aimed for a quiet transfer window, anticipating the return of players from injuries and international duties to bolster their squad.

The most notable development was a failed attempt to sign Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth, which would have cost around £65 million. United has decided to save those funds for future acquisitions, likely in the summer. With Semenyo opting to join Manchester City, the chances of securing a long-term target this month have diminished significantly.

Two loan deals are on the verge of completion. Midfielder Toby Collyer, 22, will join Championship side Hull City after returning from a loan at West Brom, where he suffered an injury. Hull City currently sits in fourth place, pushing for promotion to the Premier League. Meanwhile, striker Ethan Wheatley, 19, will move to League One promotion contenders Bradford City after being recalled from his loan at Northampton Town.

Defender Tyler Fredricson, 20, will remain at Old Trafford due to a calf injury that will sideline him for a month. He has appeared in four matches for United this season, including a Carabao Cup defeat and a Premier League win against Newcastle. Despite interest from clubs in the Championship and Belgium, Fredricson’s injury has halted any potential move.

Another player in the spotlight is Rhys Bennett, also 20, who is in discussions for a temporary transfer to Fleetwood Town. United hopes to secure loan moves for five other players who have recently returned from various loan spells. Habeeb Ogunneye, 20, trained with the senior squad after his stint at Newport County but may go out on loan again. Goalkeeper Elhy Harrison has returned from Shrewsbury Town, while defenders Louis Jackson and Sonny Aljofree are back from Notts County and Solihull Moors, respectively. Striker Joe Hugill has also been recalled from Barnet.

The clock is ticking for these players, as the transfer window draws to a close. There remains uncertainty around the future of talented midfielder Sekou Kone, 19, who has been training with Swiss club Lausanne-Sport. He participated in a friendly match against Neuchâtel Xamax. With the transfer window in Switzerland open until February 16, United is not under immediate pressure to finalize a decision.

Any significant changes to the first-team lineup appear unlikely now. Players such as Manuel Ugarte and Joshua Zirkzee are expected to remain at Old Trafford, despite interest from various European clubs. Left-back Tyrell Malacia, who has seen limited action this season, may also stay and complete the final months of his contract, as he seeks more playing opportunities.

The next few days will be crucial for Manchester United as they navigate the closing moments of the transfer window, balancing the potential exits and the needs of their squad.