Man Utd targeting 'four winter signings' including potential Sofyan Amrabat replacement

Manchester United are targeting four January signings including a replacement for summer transfer Sofyan Amrabat, a fresh report has claimed.

The Guardian has alleged that United are aiming to strengthen four positions in January, including the defensive midfield birth amid Amrabat’s indifferent start to life at Old Trafford.

United are also said to be interested in a right-sided centre-back, a No.8 and a striker, after a challenging start to the campaign. There is reportedly a recognition among the club hierarchy, however, that bringing in four players will not be straightforward.

The publication added that plans hinge on Sir Jim Ratcliffe completing his purchase of a 25 per cent stake in the club, as well as Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations.

FFP means that incomings may depend on outgoings. United failed in their attempts to sell Harry Maguire and Scott McTominay in the summer, and it is possible they could look to sell either in January.

Meanwhile, the club's move for a forward is said to be likely to depend on a buyer for Anthony Martial.

The attack is not United’s main priority given Marcus Rashford and £72million summer signing Rasmus Hojlund are already at Erik ten Hag’s disposal.

However, United are targeting the midfield, amid Casemiro and Amrabat’s poor starts to the season. The Guardian has claimed “doubts have been raised internally” over Amrabat’s performances.

The Morocco international has started just four league games since completing a loan move on deadline day from Fiorentina. Amrabat was even left out for 18-year-old academy product Kobbie Mainoo in United’s 3-0 win over Everton on Sunday.

United are also interested in a left-sided No 8 despite the club having spent £60million on Mason Mount last summer. The England international has made little impact so far at his new club, having been blighted by injuries.

Moreover, the search for centre-back will raise further doubts over Raphael Varane’s future, with the France World Cup winner having fallen out of favour in recent weeks.