Man Utd transfer news: Bruno Fernandes exit decision as deal for goal machine 'approved' - The Mirror

Manchester United look to have a busy month ahead as the January transfer window starts to heat up, with Michael Carrick potentially tasked with incomings and outgoings in his first month at the helm

Michael Carrick has a hectic first month at the helm of Manchester United in store. Not only will the 44-year-old have to work quickly to get to grips with the squad the interim head coach has inherited from Ruben Amorim, but he may also have to accommodate exits and arrivals.

The January transfer window is in full swing at present, with a number of players linked with moves to and from Old Trafford. And while United are not expected to stray from their plans to remain with their current crop of talent this month, that hasn't prevented the rumour mill from churning.

While Carrick's main focus will be on guiding United to the best possible Premier League finish this season, there are areas of concern that may need addressing to prevent failures in the future. With all things considered, Mirror Football explores some of the most recent news and rumours surrounding the Red Devils...

Bruno Fernandes exit decision

Bruno Fernandes is not thought to be looking for the exit at United this month. The club captain has been linked with a number of Saudi sides as of recent, including Al-Ittihad, Al-Nassr and Al Hilal.

Recent reports also suggested that Fernandes is considering his future with his current club following the sacking of Amorim. The 31-year-old met with one of his former head coach's backroom staff, Carlos Fernandes, in the aftermath, heightening concerns that he could be looking to follow Amorim out the door.

However, a new reports from BBC Sport highlights that sources have claimed Fernandes is committed to the task at hand with United for the rest of the season. It is understood that he will assess his options in the summer, when he enters his final year of contract with the Red Devils.

Green light given for goal machine

As per Sky Sports, Juventus have been given the "green light" by Luciano Spaletti to approach Crystal Palace for Jean-Philippe Mateta. The Old Lady are said to be looking for a long-term successor to Dusan Vlahovic, who sees his current contract in Turin expire this summer.

United are believed to hold a longstanding interest in the Frenchman, who has racked up eight Premier League goals in 21 games for the Eagles this season alone. Should Juventus accelerate discussions for Mateta, it could probe other interested clubs to also chase his signature.

That could in-turn prompt United to finally enter the race for the striker, or risk missing out on ever seeing him ply his trade at the Theatre of Dreams. United currently have a number of options to choose from up top, with Benjamin Sesko leading the line at present, supported by Matheus Cunha - who can also operate as a No. 9 but has dropped into an attacking midfield role this season.

As per reports, Palace will expect around £30million to let Mateta leave this month, although that figure could rise if the interest is there.

Two deals placed on the backburner

United fans will have to wait a little longer to find out what the future holds for Joshua Zirkzee and Kobbie Mainoo, as Fabrizio Romano claims that "there are no signals from United," with regard to movement this month.

Roma remain admirers of Zirkzee despite recently welcoming Robinio Vaz while they are looking to bring in Donyell Malen. The Dutchman is also thought to be open to a return to Serie A, but the ball remains in United's court.

Elsewhere, Napoli are thought to hold an interest in Mainoo, who is reportedly aggrieved by a lack of consistent playing time as of recent. It remains to be seen what Carrick's intentions are for the midfielder, especially considering the Red Devils' faith has been instilled in Fernandes and Casemiro for the bulk of the season.

However, Carrick may be wise to hold discussions with Mainoo and Zirkzee before deadline day lands on February 2, so everyone is on the same page.

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