Jose Mourinho: Manchester United boss willing to sign players in January

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has stated his views on the January transfer window before — he doesn’t like doing business midseason.

However, Manchester United currently have holes in the roster desperately needing filled. And Jose Mourinho may be forced to open the wallet this transfer window should he have any hope of making a run in Europe or catching Manchester City.

Speaking to the media he stated:

"“I’m not a big defender of the January market,” he said. “But there are players and situations that sometimes you have the chance to do and you shouldn’t lose that chance.”"

Manchester United are often linked with a plethora of big-money moves throughout the years. However, there have been substantial reports of United making moves for additional fullback and midfield help this winter.

It’s also that time of the year again where Gareth Bales’ name starts to come up. But we hope that move doesn’t ever happen at this point.

Manchester United have been linked with players like Lazio’s Sergej Milinkovic-Savic and Tottenham’s Danny Rose. Both of these transfers would make sense and seem to have credibility.

However, when Mourinho was asked about potential January moves for Atletico’s Antoine Griezmann or Juventus’ Paulo Dybala, Jose was quick to dismiss.

"“I don’t speak about players, especially players who belong to other clubs.”"

United fans shouldn’t get their hopes up for a massive move in January. A deal for a player of Griezmann or Dybala’s caliber can take months to sort out and typically happen in the summer.

But Manchester United should be active this winter. Selling some of the dead wood at the club could be beneficial. However, hopefully Jose learns from last January’s mistake of selling players without bringing in replacements.

Another midfielder would be wise. Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Marouane Fellaini are unreliable at this point, with the latter just having six months left on his current deal. A player like Milinkovic-Savic could be a huge boost in the middle.

A fullback may not be necessary if Luke Shaw continues to impress as Mourinho gives him more and more playing time.

January is a crucial period for a team. The team can assess its’ situation, and look to see where it can strengthen. The Premier League may be decided already with Manchester City 11 points clear. The focus now has to be on the Champions League and going as far as possible.

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Reinforcements will be needed for United to compete with the best of Europe. Hopefully Jose Mourinho and the club make the right moves.