Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim could be forced into the January transfer market following a fresh injury blow to captain Bruno Fernandes. The Portuguese playmaker suffered a hamstring injury during United's 2-1 away defeat to Aston Villa on Sunday, a result that leaves the club seventh in the Premier League.
Neves Emerges as Prime Midfield Target
With Bruno Fernandes expected to be sidelined for at least a month with a suspected soft-tissue injury, the Red Devils have identified a potential short-term solution. According to reports, the club is considering a move for former Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Ruben Neves, who currently plays for Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal.
The 28-year-old Portuguese international is said to be available for a cut-price deal, with figures as low as £18 million being mentioned. Al-Hilal, who paid £47 million for Neves in 2023, are reportedly resigned to losing him on a free transfer in the summer and would prefer to recoup some funds in January.
United's interest in Neves is long-standing, dating back to his time in the Midlands. With other targets like Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton and Brighton's Carlos Baleba carrying hefty price tags, Neves represents a more financially viable option for the winter window.
Amorim's Transfer Window Warning
Speaking on the need for new signings, boss Ruben Amorim issued a cautionary note. "We need to deal with that," he said. "What we cannot do is reach January and try to do everything with urgency and make mistakes again and be left saying 'here we go again'."
On the subject of his injured skipper, who attracted interest from Saudi Arabia last summer, Amorim added: "I think it's a soft-tissue injury so it's going to be a while. He is a guy who is always fit so we hope he can recover well. We will see."
Manchester Derby Brews for Bournemouth Star
In another major transfer storyline, Manchester United are poised for a direct battle with rivals Manchester City for the signature of Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo. The 25-year-old Ghanaian winger has been in scintillating form this season, contributing eight goals and three assists in the Premier League.
Semenyo has a release clause believed to be set at £60 million plus £5 million in add-ons, which is reportedly active for the first ten days of the January window. He has already snubbed interest from Tottenham Hotspur, and Liverpool are also said to be ending their pursuit, leaving the path clear for a Manchester tug-of-war.
United have held direct talks with Bournemouth regarding the player, but it is understood Semenyo has not yet decided if he wishes to leave the Vitality Stadium next month. The coming weeks will be critical as Amorim looks to bolster his squad for the second half of a challenging season.
