Overview
- Citing Saturday's reports, Manchester United have moved to speed up plans to sign a right-back in the January 2027 window to bolster a defence that has struggled this season.
- Diogo Dalot has faced heavy criticism for inconsistent form but remains a regular under Michael Carrick and could be sold next year as clubs across Europe monitor his contract situation.
- Sources say Roma's 23-year-old full-back Wesley is on United's radar after three Serie A assists this season, though his contract with Roma runs until 2030 and would make any transfer expensive.
- United decided against defensive signings in the summer, prompting the recruitment team to prioritise full-back and centre-back upgrades now and to plan possible outgoing transfers to balance the squad.
- Key things to watch in the coming weeks are whether United make a formal approach for Wesley, how Dalot responds to renewed competition, and whether the club pairs signings with sales to control wages.