Five Manchester United players who could be sold in January 2027

Manchester United face the prospect of offloading five first‑team players in the January 2027 transfer window after a troubled start to the 2026-27 season under Michael Carrick, who was appointed permanent manager in May 2026.

Since Carrick’s appointment in May 2026 the club made several summer signings — multiple midfielders, two goalkeepers and a winger — but did not prioritise reinforcements for the backline, a shortfall the report says is affecting results. After matchweek 10 United sit 18th in the Premier League table, having recorded only one win in their first 10 league games, and there is even speculation that a managerial change could occur during the international break in November 2026.

Left-back Luke Shaw is identified as a likely candidate for sale; the England international, aged 31, featured in all 38 Premier League matches in 2025-26 but has struggled for consistency this season because of recurring fitness problems that have limited his availability. Shaw’s contract is due to expire in June 2027, and the club may opt to sell him in January 2027 rather than run the risk of losing him on a free transfer; Andrea Cambiaso of Juventus is mentioned as a reported option United might pursue.

Centre-back Lisandro Martinez, whose contract also runs until June 2027, is another player under consideration after uneven performances this season despite starting regularly under Carrick. The report notes Martinez gave an outspoken post-match interview following a 0-2 loss to Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League and was subsequently benched for a game or two; the club reportedly holds an option to extend his deal but could seek a January sale to secure a fee.

Teenage left-back Harry Amass is described as a candidate for departure, with the piece suggesting a loan might better serve his development than a permanent exit given his need for regular senior football, which the squad currently cannot guarantee. The article includes a social media complaint about his treatment at first-team level: "No Harry Amass in United’s squad to face Villa today. Another Premier League game he misses out on despite being available.He starts for the U21s this afternoon instead. Honestly, baffling this entire Amass treatment. pic.twitter.com/uwC7UpW9s4"

Full-back Diogo Dalot is noted for his ability to play on either side of the defence, a trait that makes him valuable, but recent performances are cited as a concern and the club is said to be seeking a longer-term option at full-back. Dalot’s contract runs until June 2028 with a one-year club option, yet Manchester United would consider selling him if a suitable offer arrives during the January 2027 window.

Forward Joshua Zirkzee, who arrived from Bologna in Serie A with notable expectations, has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter and is listed among those whose futures may be reassessed. The report describes Zirkzee as a Dutch forward with versatility and technical ability and states that selling him could raise funds as United look to strengthen their attacking options in future windows.

Manchester United could therefore consider selling Luke Shaw, Lisandro Martinez, Harry Amass, Diogo Dalot and Joshua Zirkzee in the January 2027 transfer window as the club seeks to address squad balance and generate funds.