Manchester United face Newcastle United later today, looking to record a third victory in a week.
The Red Devils’ resurgence under Erik ten Hag took a hit earlier this month when they were thumped by neighbours Manchester City. But since, they’ve won three games on the spin, including beating Everton away in the Premier League last weekend.
The Magpies will provide a stern test, having lost only one game this season, finding themselves just a point behind Ten Hag’s side. It’s the latest in a hectic run of fixtures before the season pauses for the World Cup in November.
There are just six league games before the break and thoughts are already turning towards the January window. Here is the latest United news from Mirror Football.
Under pressure
Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong has admitted that he was being pushed to join United during the summer window.
Ten Hag had pinpointed his compatriot as the club’s top target and the Red Devils spent the majority of the window attempting to sign him. It is understood the deal went as far as the two clubs agreeing the fee, with the cash-strapped LaLiga giants desperate to cash in.
Ultimately, De Jong wasn’t convinced over the move and remained at the Camp Nou. And the midfielder has revealed there was some pressure being put on him from some Blaugrana higher-ups.
Speaking to Ziggo Sport, the midfielder said: “I was calm. I decided in May that I wanted to stay. My opinion has never changed during this entire period. I stayed calm. But then you know the pressure would start to come.”
On the lookout for Leao
Chelsea were another of the potential suitors during the Frenkie de Jong saga and United could be gearing up for another transfer battle with the Londoners.
Mirror Football understands that United are monitoring AC Milan striker Rafael Leao ahead of a potential bid. The Portuguese international has already earned comparisons to the like of Kylian Mbappe and Thierry Henry having shone with the Rossoneri.
The 23-year-old is attracting interest from across Europe, including Chelsea and United have joined the race with scouts watching him during Milan’s recent Champions League ties. Leao currently has 18 months remaining on his current deal and the Italians may look to cash in while they still can.
Ten Hag playing a waiting game?
Despite the rumour mill already cranking up, there is reason to believe Old Trafford may not be a hive of activity at the turn of the year. Having smashed their summer spending record, Ten Hag will be hoping to continue his rebuild as soon as possible.
The likes of De Jong and Leao could both be on the move after the World Cup, but the United boss could be left frustrated. Mirror Football understands that Ten Hag has been told January could be a quiet window, with money at a premium. It’s news that is unlikely to appease supporters, with the club’s owners the Glazers already coming under intense scrutiny.
