Manchester United are preparing for another busy transfer window, with reports suggesting the club will hand Ruben Amorim a £105 million budget to strengthen his squad in January.
Following their morale-boosting win over Liverpool last weekend, Sir Jim Ratcliffe reaffirmed his long-term commitment to Amorim’s project, hinting that the Portuguese manager will be fully supported in the upcoming window.
According to Fichajes, United have identified Oihan Sancet of Athletic Bilbao and Ousmane Diomande of Sporting Lisbon as their two primary targets as Amorim looks to reinforce the midfield and defence — areas that received less attention during the summer rebuild.
Two Targets, One Ambitious Budget
United’s hierarchy is believed to have earmarked £60 million for Sancet, though convincing Athletic Bilbao to sell the 25-year-old mid-season could prove difficult. The Spanish club are enjoying a strong La Liga campaign and competing in the Champions League, making a winter sale unlikely despite United’s interest.
Meanwhile, Diomande’s situation appears more flexible. The 21-year-old centre-back has just 18 months left on his current deal with Sporting, and the Portuguese side could consider selling to avoid losing leverage in future negotiations.
United are reportedly prepared to offer around £45 million for Diomande — a deal that could deliver an elite long-term defensive talent while also serving as a potential replacement for Harry Maguire, whose contract runs out at the end of the season.
Amorim’s January Challenge
While Diomande’s transfer seems attainable, Sancet’s addition is viewed as the more pressing need. United’s midfield has lacked depth and creativity this season, and Amorim sees the Spaniard as central to his tactical rebuild.
It remains to be seen whether United will wait until next summer to pursue the Athletic star or push harder in January, but one thing is clear — Ruben Amorim has the full financial backing of the new leadership to reshape Manchester United in his image.