Incoming Manchester United interim boss Ralf Rangnick will focus first on player exits instead of new signings in January, according to a report.
The Red Devils are all set for the German tactician to step into the Old Trafford dugout next week. Current caretaker boss Michael Carrick will oversee Sunday’s huge Premier League clash against Chelsea.
However, Rangnick – who has been heavily praised by Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp – will likely make next Thursday’s tie with Arsenal his first game.
As with other Premier League managerial appointments including Tottenham’s Antonio Conte and Newcastle’s Eddie Howe, there is not much time for Rangnick to settle in before the January transfer window.
Still, Rangnick has less time than the other clubs to get to know his squad before then.
Nevertheless, The Telegraph reports that he has already made player exits a priority over new signings at Old Trafford.
Indeed, United have a collection of fringe players who have struggled for game time. The newspaper picks out Anthony Martial and Dean Henderson as prime contenders to leave.
The French attacker was a marquee summer purchase in 2015 with high hopes for the then 18year old. However, with the arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo and the rise of Mason Greenwood, he reportedly wants out in January following a continued lack of match action.
Goalkeeper Dean Henderson is in the same situation, although his lack of match action has a simpler explanation.
David de Gea – who is up there as one of United’s best players this season – has been in fantastic form and never looked like losing his place to second-choice Henderson.
The Englishman missed a portion of the season as he recovered from Covid-19. Since his return, though, he has only played once – in the Carabao Cup.