Man Utd's January Exodus: Five Stars Set for Shocking Departures

Manchester United cleared out most of their unwanted players during the summer transfer window, though additional winter departures could still occur as the new year begins.

The controversial foursome of Alejandro Garnacho, Marcus Rashford, Antony and Jadon Sancho were all moved on through either permanent transfers or loan arrangements, while their attacking replacements have largely made positive impressions from the start.

Ruben Amorim's roster appears significantly stronger compared to the same period last season, featuring improved balance and talent, though some refinements remain necessary. Additional exits from Old Trafford could materialize in January.

Here are five players who might depart United during the winter transfer period.

Tyrell Malacia

Tyrell Malacia remained the sole member of United's five-player 'unwanted group' who didn't depart Manchester during the summer. The left-back, who was absent for the entire 2023–24 campaign due to injury and has yet to appear for the Red Devils this season, nearly joined Elche in the final days of the summer window, though the transfer ultimately collapsed.

However, January presents the overlooked Dutch defender with a chance to start fresh—a separation that would clearly benefit both Malacia and United. After joining PSV Eindhoven on loan last winter, a similar arrangement could happen again, though a permanent departure would serve the Red Devils better.

Malacia's deal expires next summer, enabling the defender to negotiate a pre-contract with European teams, but the approaching expiration means United are unlikely to recover any money from a player they invested £13 million in.

Diego León

United completed five acquisitions during the summer, but you could be excused for overlooking Diego León's presence. The 18-year-old left wing-back was obviously a signing for the future, evidenced by his lack of competitive appearances for United's first team.

Including potential bonuses, the Red Devils invested £7 million in the Paraguayan prospect, yet despite Amorim's public request for wing-back reinforcements, León has been overlooked this season. Apart from several unused substitute appearances with the senior squad, he's been playing for the Under-21s.

Consequently, a loan arrangement could prove advantageous for the rest of this campaign, providing León with the chance to secure regular playing time.

Ayden Heaven

Ayden Heaven's playing time has been limited this season. The young center-back was acquired from Arsenal due to his tremendous potential and featured in six first-team matches last term, but several colleagues rank higher in the hierarchy.

Luke Shaw, Leny Yoro, Lisandro Martínez, Matthijs de Ligt and Harry Maguire all surpass the 19-year-old, while Noussair Mazraoui has also been deployed at center-back ahead of Heaven, making opportunities scarce.

Heaven has started recent fixtures but hasn't impressed, with a loan move potentially being the perfect solution considering United's abundance of central defensive choices. Should he remain, he's unlikely to receive substantial minutes given United aren't competing in European competition this season and have already been eliminated from the Carabao Cup.

Kobbie Mainoo

Kobbie Mainoo will attract considerable interest this winter. The academy product once viewed as United's potential savior has been utilized sparingly by Amorim this season, with his reduced playing time understandably causing frustration. The midfielder is keen to depart Old Trafford in January to further his development.

Mainoo is unlikely to make a permanent United departure during the winter window, but a loan seems increasingly probable—though a final decision regarding his future hasn't been reached. With aspirations for England's 2026 FIFA World Cup squad, it's understandable that Mainoo is anxious to revitalize his career.

Napoli and Real Madrid are among the clubs reportedly interested, with Mainoo believed to favor an overseas move, and a temporary departure appears perfect for the youngster. Whether United will approve a loan remains uncertain, particularly given their limited midfield depth.

However, for Mainoo's career progression, he needs to leave Old Trafford this winter.

Joshua Zirkzee

Another player who has had to settle for a reduced role at United this season is Joshua Zirkzee. Benjamin Šeško's arrival has restricted his opportunities and Amorim has occasionally preferred Mason Mount as a false nine over the Dutch striker. Starting positions have been rare, while substitute appearances haven't been assured.

Unsurprisingly, Zirkzee has been connected with a departure from Old Trafford, with Roma among those showing interest in the striker. A return to Italy, where he excelled for Bologna, could rejuvenate him following a disappointing stint at United.

Nevertheless, Zirkzee seems determined to compete for his position, apparently willing to reject a winter departure to continue his United journey. Should he reconsider, then an overseas transfer could be possible—and that's arguably what the 24-year-old requires.