Manchester United connected with five potential targets for Ruben Amorim’s transfer activity in January.

Manchester United Linked with January Swoop for New Talent

As the January transfer window approaches, Manchester United are reportedly eyeing several potential signings to bolster their squad. Among the names linked with a move to Old Trafford are Jarrad Branthwaite, Viktor Gyokeres, Alphonso Davies, Leroy Sane, and Geovany Quenda.

According to *The Mirror*, new manager Ruben Amorim is keen to shake things up before the summer transfer window. The report suggests that Amorim may look to his former club, Sporting Lisbon, to raid for top talent, including the highly sought-after forward Viktor Gyokeres. The Swedish striker recently showcased his prowess by netting a hat-trick, further solidifying his status as one of the most in-demand forwards in world football.

In addition to Gyokeres, Jarrad Branthwaite could provide much-needed depth to United’s defence. With Everton facing a challenging season battling relegation, manager Sean Dyche has hinted that the club may be open to selling the highly-rated centre-back to raise funds for squad improvements.

Another defender on United’s radar is Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies. The Canadian left-back has long been a target for the Red Devils, and the club is reportedly gathering information on him ahead of a potential future move. Similarly, Leroy Sane, whose contract with Bayern also expires next summer, has been linked with a switch to Manchester. Amorim may look to test the waters in the upcoming transfer window, hoping to secure the former Manchester City star at a cut-price deal.

Lastly, United are keeping an eye on Sporting Lisbon’s 17-year-old sensation Geovany Quenda. The young talent caught the attention of several clubs after an impressive performance in a recent 4-1 victory over Manchester City, where he played a pivotal role by providing an assist.

Van Nistelrooy’s Future Remains Uncertain

In other news, *The Sun* has provided an update on the future of interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy at Manchester United. The Dutchman is still awaiting clarity on his role within the club as he prepares to hand over the reins to new manager Ruben Amorim.

Van Nistelrooy has taken charge of three matches since stepping in as interim boss following Erik ten Hag’s departure. However, with Amorim set to take over on Monday, the former United striker finds himself in limbo regarding his future.

Having been appointed as Ten Hag’s assistant manager earlier this summer, Van Nistelrooy’s position is now uncertain. Despite his efforts to guide the team through this transitional period, he remains in the dark about his prospects, even as he frequently checks his phone for updates.

Pressure Mounts on Gerrard at Al-Ettifaq

Meanwhile, speculation is growing around Steven Gerrard’s future as manager of Al-Ettifaq following another disappointing defeat. The club fell to a 3-1 loss against Al-Hilal, leaving them languishing in 11th place in the Saudi Pro League.

*The Daily Mail* reports that Gerrard’s position is increasingly under scrutiny after his side has managed to win just three of their ten matches this season. The Liverpool legend, who has been at the helm for 16 months, is reportedly earning £15.2 million per year while living across the border in Bahrain.

The defeat to Al-Hilal saw Aleksandar Mitrovic and Malcolm score for the home side, while Victor Vinicius Coelho dos Santos provided a glimmer of hope for Gerrard’s team with a stoppage-time goal. However, Mohammed Al-Qahtani quickly extinguished that hope by adding a third for Al-Hilal shortly after.

Following a previous loss to Al-Qadsiah, Gerrard faced boos from a significant portion of the home crowd, who expressed their frustration with chants urging him to “get out.”

Arsenal Eyeing Edu Replacement

In a significant development, *The Telegraph* has reported that West Ham’s technical director Tim Steidten could be in line to replace Edu at Arsenal. The Brazilian sporting director recently announced his departure from the Gunners, set to join Nottingham Forest’s football family.

West Ham are reportedly concerned that Steidten may be a prime candidate for the role at Arsenal, especially after Edu’s unexpected announcement. The Brazilian is currently on gardening leave with a six-month notice period, allowing him to pursue new opportunities ahead of the summer transfer window.

Edu is expected to take on a global head of football role within a multi-club structure, although a deal is yet to be finalised. Arsenal had hoped to retain him with a pay rise, but it appears Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis is prepared to offer him a lucrative deal exceeding £5 million per year.

The Gunners are taking their time to find a suitable replacement for Edu, insisting that his departure will not disrupt their operations, thanks to a strong executive team already in place.