Manchester United’s turbulent season could lead to a significant managerial change, with several high-profile candidates being considered to replace current manager Ruben Amorim. Among them is former Barcelona coach Xavi, who has expressed interest in taking over if Amorim is relieved of his duties. This speculation arises after United’s disappointing performance, accumulating just 33 points from 34 matches under Amorim.
Reports indicate that United’s minority owner, Jim Ratcliffe, is contemplating a managerial shift following the team’s recent 3-1 defeat to Brentford. Sources suggest that the club is also in contact with former England manager Gareth Southgate and is monitoring Oliver Glasner of Crystal Palace and Andoni Iraola from Bournemouth. Additionally, Brighton’s Fabian Hurzeler has emerged as a potential candidate.
Amorim has publicly stated that he intends to remain at the club, which complicates matters for United. Reports suggest that the club may need to pay around £12 million to part ways with him, should they decide to make a change.
Transfer Market Buzz: Bernardo Silva Targeted Again
In other news, clubs in the Saudi Pro League are renewing their interest in Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva. According to TalkSPORT, the 31-year-old is being pursued for a potential four-year contract in the Middle East. Silva, who has started four of City’s six Premier League matches this season, previously rejected a lucrative £700,000-a-week offer from Al Hilal this summer, indicating his desire to remain at Manchester as he eyes the 2026 World Cup.
Despite his commitment, Saudi clubs such as Al Ahli and Al Qadsiah are expected to make substantial efforts to acquire Silva, particularly if Al Nassr fails to secure their preferred target, Bruno Fernandes from Manchester United.
Other Notable Transfer Rumors
Meanwhile, Manchester United and Chelsea are reportedly showing interest in Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic. The Serbian forward may be available in the January transfer window, as Juventus seeks to recoup a fee before his contract expires at the end of the season. Vlahovic, aged 25, has been vocal about his desire to leave the club after contract discussions stalled last season.
Newcastle United is also in the transfer spotlight, planning to offer midfielder Bruno Guimarães a new contract to fend off interest from Manchester City. City, having previously made a formal approach for Guimarães, may instead target João Neves from Paris Saint-Germain as they seek to bolster their midfield.
In other developments, Manchester City is considering a move for Bayern Munich’s Aleksander Pavlovic, seen as a potential long-term replacement for Rodri. Arsenal is scouting several players, including Real Betis midfielder Pablo Garcia, while Inter Milan aims to make Manuel Akanji‘s loan from Manchester City permanent.
As the January transfer window approaches, clubs are actively assessing their options, hoping to strengthen their squads for the remainder of the season. The next few weeks promise to be crucial for Manchester United and other clubs navigating the competitive landscape of football transfers.
