Manchester United are balancing the search for an interim head coach with January transfer plans, as the club look to finish strong in the second-half of the Premier League
Aaron Morris Senior Sports Reporter
06:00, 09 Jan 2026
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Scott McTominay could be on the brink of a return to Manchester United(Image: VCG, Visual China Group via Getty Images)
Manchester United have had a hectic week, juggling the search for a new head coach whilst exploring January transfer opportunities following Ruben Amorim’s dismissal.
The Portuguese boss was relieved of his duties on Monday morning, with the Reds revealing the move was designed to provide the club with the “best opportunity of the highest possible Premier League finish.”
Darren Fletcher stepped in as caretaker head coach for United’s league fixture against Burnley on Wednesday, though after the match ended 2-2 at Turf Moor, the board may seek someone with greater experience to oversee matters until the season concludes, at which point they’ll thoroughly evaluate their options.
Both Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Michael Carrick have emerged as potential candidates for the interim role through to May, with discussions between the club and both individuals expected this week. Whoever assumes the temporary position could be granted the chance to strengthen the squad during this transfer window.
Taking everything into account, the MEN examines several players who have recently been associated with a potential switch to Old Trafford….
Solskjaer’s feelings on McTominay return clear
Scott McTominay has been linked with a remarkable return to the north west following his impressive performances at Napoli. The Scottish midfielder joined the Serie A side in 2024, playing a key role in Gli Azzurri securing the league title during his first season, reports the Mirror.
However, if Solskjaer is appointed as the interim head coach at Old Trafford, he might push for a reunion with their academy product. Reflecting on the midfielder’s performance in 2019, Solskjaer said: “He’s been excellent, and now that him and Fred work in a good relationship, work well together did that last season, PSG, when we had a few injuries and now as well they are working as a pair.
Scott McTominay has impressed with Napoli(Image: Getty Images)
“Scotty’s a leader, a Manchester United boy, you can see he’s been a striker with the goal at Norwich on a half turn, but he’s developing into a very good midfielder.”
Currently, United’s midfield appears to be lacking depth, with Bruno Fernandes being forced into a deeper role alongside an ageing Casemiro, whose future at the club beyond this season remains uncertain. Meanwhile, Kobbie Mainoo has seen his playing time reduced recently, while Manuel Ugarte seems to be on the brink of departure.
Considering these factors, McTominay could be just the player that the Premier League heavyweights need right now. And with Solskjaer potentially back in charge, it could certainly entice the 29-year-old to return to the club where he first made his mark, given their rapport.
Plans for Ugarte’s exit emerge
According to reports, Ajax are keen on securing Ugarte this month. Dutch publication VI suggests that the Uruguayan is open to a move to the Eredivisie giants after struggling to make an impact in the Premier League.
Manuel Ugarte has failed to make much of a mark(Image: Manchester United via Getty Imag)
A loan deal until the end of the season seems the most feasible option for Ajax, although his reported weekly wage of £120,000 could pose a challenge. This could lead United to negotiate the percentage of the salary that Ajax would be willing to cover.
Since transferring from PSG to Old Trafford in a £42.1million deal in 2024, Ugarte has made 61 appearances across all competitions for Manchester United.
Competition heats up for Corinthians star
Following his impressive performances in Brazil, Manchester United are among several clubs linked with 20-year-old midfielder Breno Bidon. Reports suggest that Corinthians value the young talent at around £26m this winter – a fee that could appeal to the Reds given their current midfield struggles.
However, landing the central midfielder may not be straightforward for United, as Arsenal and Sporting CP have also been linked with him.
Sky Sports discounted Premier League and EFL package
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Sky has slashed the price of its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle for the 2025/26 season, saving members £336 and offering more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.
Sky will show at least 215 live Premier League games this season, an increase of up to 100 more.