Man Utd's failed last minute bid for ex-Premier League star sums up woeful transfer market

Manchester United made a last-minute attempt to sign former Premier League midfielder Douglas Luiz on transfer deadline day, but their approach was rejected by Juventus, according to reports.

Following a difficult start to his tenure at Old Trafford, Rúben Amorim was expected to strengthen his squad in January.

However, United’s struggles persist, with the team languishing in the bottom half of the Premier League.

Club legend Gary Neville is among those who believe United have regressed since Amorim replaced Erik ten Hag.

Despite expectations of a major squad overhaul, United only completed two signings in January: Patrick Dorgu – The Danish full-back joined from Lecce in a £25m deal. Ayden Heaven – The teenage defender arrived from Arsenal.

In contrast, United lost two attacking players, further depleting their squad: Marcus Rashford – Loaned to Aston Villa. Antony – Loaned to Real Betis.

Amorim’s squad now appears weaker than before the window opened, leaving fans frustrated at the lack of reinforcements.

In the final hours of the window, United made a push to sign Bayern Munich forward Mathys Tel, but he ultimately chose a loan move to Tottenham.

The Red Devils also launched a last-ditch bid for Douglas Luiz, according to Italian outlet Tuttosport, but Juventus refused to sell.

Luiz, 26, moved to Juventus last summer in a £42m transfer from Aston Villa, after making 175 Premier League appearances. Though Arsenal were also interested in the Brazilian midfielder at the time, Juventus won the race for his signature.

However, Luiz has struggled for game time in Turin, starting just three Serie A matches this season.

Chelsea had explored signing him earlier in the window after Juventus hinted at a possible sale, but United’s deadline-day approach was rejected as Juve were unwilling to lose more players after loaning Nicolo Fagioli to Fiorentina.

Luiz has also attracted interest from Manchester City, but for now, he will remain at Juventus until at least the summer transfer window.

While United fans may be disappointed with the lack of transfer activity, Amorim was pleased to secure the signing of Patrick Dorgu.

The Danish left-back expressed his excitement upon joining the club: “It feels amazing to be part of the family.

"I’m very excited to get going.I have heard about the incredible support, and I’m happy to be a United player now.It’s a huge club, the biggest in England, and I’m really looking forward to working with Rúben.

"I feel the system suits me really well, so I’m excited to be here.”

Despite the new arrivals, Manchester United’s struggles under Amorim continued as they suffered a 2-0 home defeat to Crystal Palace on Sunday, further piling pressure on the Portuguese manager.