Manchester United are reportedly preparing to offload five players who do not fit into Ruben Amorim’s plans — and notably, rising star Kobbie Mainoo is not among those set to be shown the exit door.
Manchester United set to offload five players under Ruben Amorim — Kobbie Mainoo spared
Manchester United are preparing for a significant squad reshuffle in the January transfer window, with head coach Rúben Amorim keen to assemble a team that aligns closely with his tactical philosophy. Rather than adapting his methods to suit the current squad, the Portuguese manager is pushing for personnel changes that mirror the system he successfully implemented in Lisbon.
Reports indicate that Amorim has already informed the club’s hierarchy that January should mark the beginning of a proper rebuild. His focus is on recruiting players who naturally fit his approach, even if that means parting ways with established names. Midfield targets such as Angelo Stiller, Adam Wharton, and Elliot Anderson are believed to be on United’s radar as part of this restructuring plan.
To fund these potential signings, United have reportedly placed five players on a provisional transfer list. Interestingly, young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo—despite speculation surrounding his future—is not included among those earmarked for departure, suggesting further exits could still occur beyond the initial group.
Players facing uncertain futures at Old Trafford
Joshua Zirkzee
Striker Joshua Zirkzee appears to be one of the most vulnerable names. Although he was initially favoured over Rasmus Højlund, his role has diminished following the arrivals of Matheus Cunha, Benjamin Šeško, and Bryan Mbeumo. Amorim is believed to prefer a more conventional goal-poacher, which has left Zirkzee on the fringes. Italian giants Juventus and AC Milan are reportedly keeping tabs on the situation, as United weigh a sale to pursue a more direct attacking option.
Tyrell Malacia
Left-back Tyrell Malacia is also expected to move on. While his signing was initially welcomed by supporters, persistent fitness problems have limited his impact. Amorim values physically dominant, high-energy full-backs capable of covering the entire flank—qualities Malacia is not seen to fully possess. As a result, he is viewed as surplus to requirements.
Manuel Ugarte
Midfielder Manuel Ugarte could be allowed to leave should a suitable offer arrive. Signed from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024, the Uruguayan has struggled to settle and does not fit Amorim’s vision for the defensive midfield role. The manager prefers a player who can control tempo and advance play under pressure, rather than focusing solely on breaking up opposition attacks. Galatasaray are reportedly leading the race for his signature.
Altay Bayındır
Goalkeeper Altay Bayındır is another player whose future looks uncertain. Following André Onana’s departure, Bayındır failed to fully convince, and the emergence of Senne Lammens has further reduced his chances of regular football. Unless he moves on, the Turkish international is expected to be limited to cup appearances.
Mason Mount
Despite receiving opportunities, Mason Mount is not considered an ideal fit for Amorim’s system. A combination of injuries and tactical incompatibility has prevented the former Chelsea midfielder from making a decisive impact. With additional midfield reinforcements expected in upcoming windows, United are increasingly likely to cash in on Mount.
Manchester United currently sit sixth in the Premier League and are slowly regaining stability after a turbulent run of results. Reflecting on the recent 4–4 draw with Bournemouth, Amorim stressed that the team’s issues are less about formation and more about execution, highlighting the need for sharper decision-making and greater efficiency in key moments.
