Manchester United had a relatively quiet January transfer window compared to their Premier League rivals but they still managed to make three signings.
A back-up goalkeeper was not a priority before the turn of the year but United were forced into pursuing one after Newcastle United made the decision to recall Martin Dubravka from his season-long loan.
Jack Butland was signed on a temporary basis from Crystal Palace. The England international has yet to make his United debut but will be hoping to feature against Nottingham Forest this evening.
Aside from a shot-stopper, the club brought in Wout Weghorst on loan from Burnley. The Dutch striker has already made a good impression in his first four appearances for the Red Devils.
Weghorst was influential in Bruno Fernandes’ goal at Crystal Palace where he did a splendid job of distracting defenders with his movement. He also bagged his maiden goal against Forest last week.
The 30-year-old should have a big part to play in the coming months as manager Erik ten Hag is likely to rotate his centre-forward options. He may handle Anthony Martial with caution after his latest injury.
United ended the transfer window with the loan acquisition of Marcel Sabitzer from Bayern Munich. The move was probably forced onto them after the confirmation of Christian Eriksen’s long-term setback.
Sabitzer has not played much in his 18 months at Bayern but we know very well from his Leipzig days that he was a brilliant contributor of goals and assists. He played in different positions for the German side.
The Austrian will most certainly line up for United in the number eight role after Eriksen’s injury but he can also play anywhere in attack and could be used as a false number nine when required.
United have got themselves a fantastic player in the prime of his career. If Sabitzer makes a big impression, there is a high possibility that the club will seek a permanent transfer for him.
It was far from a dream transfer window for United. However, they did manage to fill the void after Eriksen’s injury. The club should be on course for a top-four league finish while winning a trophy or two.
