Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim is desperate for new signings after the dismal defeat to Brighton.
The draw with leaders Liverpool and the victories over Arsenal and Southampton suggested that Amorim had finally found a formula for success. But a dreadful 3-1 defeat to the Seagulls has sent him back to the drawing board.
The 39-year-old claimed after the match that this is the worst United team in the club's history, a clear indication that he believes new recruits are needed. Looks like he might just get his wish.
In addition to new recruits, United also need to go a step further in their selection, a process that is finally getting underway. Here, Mirror Football collects all the latest Manchester United transfer news.
Amorim close to first signing
Manchester United are closing in on making Lecce star Patrick Dorgu the first signing of Ruben Amorim's reign as manager. The left-back is one of the key areas that needs strengthening this month.
According to The Athletic, United have opted for Dorgu as the man who can fill that gap in the squad. Talks have begun about the 20-year-old and discussions are progressing, although nothing has been agreed yet.
Dorgu has earned four caps for Denmark and is seen as a player who would be suitable for Amorim's 3-4-2-1 formation. A possible complication is that he only signed a new contract in October.
Scouts sent on mission to Portugal
Dorgu is expected to be the first of a number of players to make his debut at Old Trafford this month. As United's recruitment chiefs continue their search for new faces, scouts have been sent on a reconnaissance mission to Portugal.
According to O Jogo, United scouts were present at Porto's defeat to Gil Vicente. It would be the last of several visits Red Devils representatives have made to watch the Portuguese giants.
It is not known who their main target was as scouts from Southampton, Marseille, Bologna and Mallorca were all also present at the Estádio Cidade de Barcelos. Porto lost 3–1 and then fired their manager.
Antony prepared to leave
Flop Antony is set to finally leave United after a dreadful two-year spell at Old Trafford. He was signed from Ajax for £82 million in 2022, making him the most expensive player in Eredivisie history.
But the Brazilian has failed to live up to his price tag and is now on loan to Real Betis. That is according to Revelo, who claims La Liga have 'accelerated' negotiations for the winger, who has become their main target.
Talks in recent days are said to have seen 'progress', with Antony having already agreed to the move. Betis are now awaiting final approval from United Chiefs before the 24-year-old can travel to Spain for his medical treatment and to complete his move.