CORNERFLICK
Manchester United are planning for the January window with Fermín López and Pablo Barrios among the midfield targets on their list, according to transfer reporter Matteo Moretto.
Midfield targets under review
Moretto says United have identified Barcelona’s Fermín López and Atlético Madrid’s Barrios as possible options to strengthen the centre of midfield. Both clubs value their players highly, which makes any deal difficult.
Fermín has made 13 appearances in all competitions for Barcelona this season, scoring six goals and providing six assists. Barrios is a regular starter for Atlético.
Left-back also under consideration
United’s recruitment plans also cover left-back, with The Athletic reporting that the club want to make changes there too. Leipzig defender David Raum is one of the names linked with that position.
The need for fresh signings comes after a summer outlay of more than €170 million on three central midfielders, including Carlos Balba, André Santos and Youri Tielemans.
Pressure grows on Carrick
United have made their worst start to a season, taking one win from nine league games and sitting near the bottom of the table after Saturday’s 2-0 defeat to Chelsea. Calls for Michael Carrick’s dismissal gathered pace after the 3-0 loss to Bournemouth last week.
Antonio Conte and Brighton head coach Fabian Hürzeler have been mentioned as possible replacements, while reports say Julian Nagelsmann is no longer in the frame.