Erik ten Hag has confirmed that Manchester United are looking to strengthen their squad ahead of the January transfer window.
United have shown positive signs during Ten Hag’s first season in charge and are in the race to secure a top four finish and Champions League football.
The Red Devils returned from the World Cup break with a convincing 3-0 win against Nottingham Forest this week and next face a struggling Wolves in the Premier League on Saturday lunchtime.
The January transfer window opens for business this weekend and United have been linked with additions, with the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo having heightened the need for further firepower. Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Ten Hag confirmed the club are ready to enter the market if ‘the right player’ becomes available.
“I think we have a squad. We have the players who are matching our criteria. But with all the games that are coming, it is tough competition in all the leagues. But if you want to also be in all the leagues and keep playing in all the leagues by winning games and cups as well.
“So, you need players, you need numbers to cover. So, we need good players. Not only numbers, you need quality players to cover that and also that you need competition. And you need also that you can make tactical choices.
19'—Man Utd 1-0 Nottingham Forest (Rashford)
22'—Man Utd 2-0 Nottingham Forest (Martial)
These two 🤗 pic.twitter.com/4ExHypB7ea
— B/R Football (@brfootball) December 27, 2022
“So, we are looking for the right player for our squad and has to match our sporting criteria but also our financial criteria.”
One player who will be hoping for more opportunities is Alejandro Garnacho, with the teenager having impressed in his cameo appearances this season. The 18-year-old made game-changing contributions as a substitute against Fulham and Aston Villa before the break and Ten Hag admits his side are in need of ‘impact from the bench’.
“We need impact from the bench. And I am happy once again it was a player who come from the bench, Fred, who is scoring the goal. And I think all the subs who came on [against Forest] did really well.
“Also in the offensive department, you need players coming from the bench who will have an impact on the game, whether it is that you need a goal or a save when you are leading and that you can go for a counter attack or at least you keep the win on your side.”
