Five Man Utd Players Who Could Leave Club Before January Transfer Window Closes

So far, it has been an especially quiet transfer window at Manchester United as their dramatic managerial shift dominated headlines, but that could all change in the final two weeks of January.

Last year, Antony and Marcus Rashford left the club on loan while Patrick Dorgu and Ayden Heaven arrived during Ruben Amorim's first transfer window.

This time around, there are no plans to make new signings in January, according to a report from ESPN, as none of their leading midfield targets - including Adam Wharton and Carlos Baleba - are available.

It is also suggested that outgoings are unlikely. The club's hierarchy believes new caretaker manager Michael Carrick has enough depth in his squad to challenge in the remaining months of the season.

However, rumours continue to swirl around the futures of certain first-team players, including Kobbie Mainoo, who is reportedly open to a loan move as he continues to struggle for regular minutes.

Kobbie Mainoo made his second start of the season against Brighton on Sunday. Image credit: Getty

Here are five players who could leave Old Trafford in January.

Tyrell Malacia

Michael Carrick’s preferred system is 4-2-3-1, meaning Malacia will sit behind Luke Shaw and Patrick Dorgu in the pecking order if United switch to a back four.

The 26-year-old full-back, who spent time on loan at PSV Eindhoven last season and was linked with a move to Spanish side Elche, is approaching the final five months of his contract at Old Trafford.

United will likely want to cash in if they can, although it appears there are no standout suitors as we approach the final two weeks of the January window.

Malacia will seek clarity from Carrick before making a decision on his future, according to The Sun.

"The 26-year-old left back has generated some interest in this month’s transfer window but none of the options appeal to Malacia," the report adds.

Malacia has been an unused substitute on 11 occasions since being reintegrated into the squad in October. Image credit: Getty

Joshua Zirkzee

Zirkzee has played a bit-part role for United this season. In fact, since arriving from Bologna in the summer of 2024 for around £36.5 million, the forward has notched just nine goals and nine assists.

The 24-year-old is said to be concerned that a lack of game time could impact his chances of making the Netherlands' World Cup squad this summer.

In terms of transfer interest, Serie A side Roma are not giving up on signing Zirkzee, according to journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, and there is apparent dialogue with the player’s entourage and Manchester United.

That being said, a report from TeamTalk suggests Zirkzee is hoping to impress new interim boss Michael Carrick and play a part in the second half of the 2025-26 campaign.

Zirkzee has been linked with a move to Roma. Image credit: Getty

Manuel Ugarte

Ugarte has ultimately failed to live up to his £50 million price tag since joining from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024.

He's made 20 appearances for United this season, including seven starts, but the Uruguay international has struggled in the middle of United's midfield for large parts.

Speaking in September, Ugarte admitted he was struggling for form. "We haven't started the season very well. My level wasn't the best either, we have to be realistic and honest," he told reporters.

"But I'm very confident, I have a very good relationship with the coach. I work well and I'm very excited and eager to earn a starting spot.”

The Uruguay international could leave the club in January, with Turkish side Galatasaray said to be considering a loan move that could lead to a permanent deal.

Galatasaray are reportedly interested in a deal to sign Ugarte. Image credit: Getty

Harry Maguire

Maguire made 40 appearances for the Reds last season but has found first-team football harder to come by in recent months.

The 32-year-old is 'open' to leaving United in January, according to reports in Italy, with a number of clubs in Serie A are 'seriously evaluating' the England international, including Fiorentina, Inter Milan and Napoli.

The arrival of Michael Carrick may sway his decision, with United's new caretaker manager being a big fan.

"I’m so pleased for Harry Maguire," Carrick said while working as a pundit this season. "He’s done some really good things for the football club, and he’s been through the mill at times as well.

"He’s had some unfair times. But he’s come back unbelievably well and turned into a leader and a real talisman. It takes a lot when you’re up against it. There’s no hiding place at a club like Manchester United. It’s fantastic."

Michael Carrick recently praised Maguire. Image credit: Getty

Kobbie Mainoo

Mainoo has made just two starts for United this season, a lack of first-team football that continues to be a big talking point.

He returned to the starting line-up for their FA Cup defeat against Brighton on Sunday but the midfielder continues to be heavily linked with a move, with Napoli being the favourites to sign Mainoo in January.

His relationship with United's hierarchy is said to be 'fragile' after he failed to see a new contract last year, according to The Daily Mail.

Fletcher recently claimed Mainoo is "in a good place" after returning to fitness, but the above report suggests he would still be open to a loan move this month if he continues to be left out under Carrick.