January window begins with top four pressure and a big fixture ahead
Manchester United are heading into an important period as the January transfer window moves into action. Ruben Amorim’s team are still pushing for a Champions League place, but the feeling around Old Trafford is that extra help might be needed to keep the momentum going until the end of the season.
There have been encouraging signs across the campaign. United have found ways through difficult spells and stayed in the mix for the top four. Even so, the recent draw with Wolves left plenty to improve, and the focus now turns to a strong response. A home clash with Leeds on Sunday offers a chance to reset and build confidence with a statement result.
Before the window opened, United were linked with several big-name midfield options. While those rumours continue to circulate, the squad has also received a surprise boost early in the New Year, with developments that could affect Amorim’s plans across the second half of the season.
Rashford enjoying Barcelona spell but permanent move is not guaranteed
Marcus Rashford appears to be thriving during his loan spell at Barcelona, yet fresh uncertainty has emerged over whether he will end up staying there long term. The England forward has indicated that he would like to remain with the Catalan club beyond this season, and his performances have backed up that ambition.
Rashford has made a strong impact in Spain, scoring seven goals and adding 11 assists across 24 matches. Despite those numbers, a report from Mundo Deportivo suggests his situation is still not fully settled. The outlet claims Rashford is one of three Barcelona players whose futures are not completely clear, alongside Robert Lewandowski and defender Andreas Christensen, with their current deals set to run out in the summer.
The same report adds that Barcelona have been pleased with Rashford’s contribution, but a permanent move is not yet treated as a done deal. United are believed to have a £26 million buy clause in place, although Barcelona’s financial situation remains a constant theme, and the club may look to renegotiate the fee rather than accept the current figure.
It was also suggested that Rashford could strengthen parts of his game without the ball, particularly his pressing and defensive effort. Even with the speculation, he ended the year in a confident mood on social media, sharing that he felt grateful for personal growth and was entering 2026 with fresh motivation for football and life.
United recall Collyer from West Brom loan after injury setback
United have also confirmed a move of their own, bringing midfielder Toby Collyer back from his loan spell at West Bromwich Albion. The 21-year-old featured 12 times in the Championship before returning to Old Trafford.
His loan has been cut short due to an injury suffered in November, which has kept him out of action. A club update explained that Collyer is back to concentrate on his recovery and rebuild fitness. His return could also increase the options available to Amorim, especially as the schedule tightens and squad depth becomes more important.
Collyer played 13 times for United last season, and his pathway has been a talking point recently. Amorim had highlighted the wider issue of young players being moved into senior football too quickly, using Collyer’s situation as an example of how context can shape development. The manager’s message was that progress is not only about talent or academy background, but also about timing, role, and circumstance.
