Manchester United’s chances of signing a highly-rated defender from Sporting CP have got a big boost and Ruben Amorim’s defensive arrangement could get some decent uplift.

Ten days after Sanchez’s departure in January 2018, the playmaker – 29 at the time – signed a three-and-a-half-year deal that made him the highest-paid player in the club’s history. Ozil had his moments after that, but he was no longer the dazzling assist machine he’d been in his pomp.

© Gareth Copley/Getty ImagesCasemiro of Manchester United during the Premier League match. Despite Man United having Manuel Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo as alternatives ...

Manchester United have dismissed suggestions that they are preparing a January move for Sergio Ramos, despite reports linking the club with an attempt to bring the former Real Madrid captain to Old Trafford.

Manchester United agreed transfers worth in excess of £250million for six players in 2026, with Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, Senne Lammens, Patrick Dorgu, and Diego Leon joining the club. But the squad still needs key additions to be ready to challenge for top honours again, and suit Ruben Amorim’s system.