Rashford replaced and Shaw sold - how January transfer window pans out

Manchester United’s hopes for the January transfer window are dim due to constraints imposed by UEFA and the Premier League’s financial regulations.

After spending over £600 million in less than three years on Erik ten Hag’s ill-fated project, the club finds itself in a precarious financial position.

But if Ineos and Sir Jim Ratcliffe maintain their ruthless approach to cutting costs and raising funds through player sales, they could create room for new additions for Ruben Amorim.

Here are three critical steps United should consider taking as 2025 begins to steer the club in the right direction.

United have reportedly placed a £40 million price tag on Marcus Rashford, whose departure appears inevitable. Amorim has excluded the 27-year-old forward from his last three squads, and Rashford has openly stated he is “ready for a new challenge and the next steps.” While a summer transfer seems more likely, a January sale could provide United with much-needed funds to reinvest.

Accelerating Rashford’s exit would not only relieve financial strain but also offer Amorim resources to address key areas in the squad. The sooner the club capitalizes on his market value, the faster they can begin rebuilding.

Luke Shaw has been sidelined for most of the season, managing only a few appearances without a single start due to ongoing injury setbacks. Tyrell Malacia, returning from an 18-month injury layoff, has struggled to meet the required standards.

Amorim’s system relies heavily on an effective left-wing-back, making this position a priority for January reinforcements. Whether the right candidate can be secured midseason remains uncertain, as top-quality options at an affordable price are rare during the winter window. Addressing this gap, however, would significantly strengthen the team in the short term.

Several more players, including Altay Bayindir, Victor Lindelof, Tyrell Malacia, Casemiro, Christian Eriksen and Antony could be considered expendable.

Though it may seem harsh, parting ways with these underperforming or surplus players could free up both funds and squad space for Amorim’s vision.

Ineos and Ratcliffe have already garnered attention for their cost-cutting measures and aggressive restructuring of the club’s operations.

That same no-nonsense approach is needed when it comes to reshaping the playing squad.

For Amorim to implement his philosophy and achieve success, United’s leadership must act decisively and support his vision without delay.