Manchester United set aside £105 million for January spending spree on two targets

Man Utd set aside £105 million for January rebuild – two key targets identified

Manchester United are reportedly ready to hand manager Rúben Amorim a transfer budget of £105 million ahead of the January window, as the club look to accelerate their long-term rebuilding project.

After a string of encouraging results, the United hierarchy believe Amorim is the right man to lead the club forward, and they are prepared to back him heavily this winter.

According to plans, United are focusing on two main targets: Oihan Sancet of Athletic Bilbao and Ousmane Diomande of Sporting Lisbon.

Sancet – the missing piece in midfield

United see Sancet as a crucial addition to their midfield, an area lacking both creativity and control. The 25-year-old Spaniard is valued at around £60 million, but with a contract running until 2032, persuading Bilbao to sell mid-season will be difficult.

Amorim believes Sancet could bring balance between attack and defence while improving United’s ability to dominate possession – something they’ve struggled with in recent seasons.

Oihan Sancet – Chất keo tạo nên sự khác biệt của Bilbao

Diomande – investing in the future of defence

In defence, Ousmane Diomande has emerged as a top target. The 21-year-old centre-back has just 18 months left on his deal with Sporting Lisbon, which gives United an opening to negotiate a transfer in January. The fee is expected to be around £45 million.

Diomande is regarded as one of Europe’s most promising young defenders, combining strong anticipation with pace and composure on the ball. He is viewed as a potential long-term replacement for Harry Maguire, whose contract expires at the end of the season.

Taça de Portugal: Diomande falha treino do Sporting no Jamor | Flashscore.pt

Investing for present and future

A £105 million outlay for these two players underlines Amorim’s vision: to build a squad with identity – competitive in the short term, sustainable in the long run.

Having already strengthened their attack last summer, United’s focus now shifts to the midfield and defence, two areas seen as crucial for a full-scale rebuild.

The question remains whether United will wait until summer to secure Sancet’s signature or move decisively in January. Either way, the message is clear: a new Manchester United is beginning to take shape under Rúben Amorim.