Yes, the rumors are true. They are my top priorities and I want them this January. They have accepted to come to Manchester United and I am happy to make use of them in my way”-Rúben Amorim reveals his top priority signing in January as he plans to get back to his fit with Manchester United and start winning games.

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has expressed a strong desire to be active in the January transfer window, amid reports that the club is making a concerted effort to sign PSG left-back Nuno Mendes. The French club’s asking price for Mendes has also come to light.

Under Amorim’s leadership, United endured a rough patch with five losses in six Premier League matches, leaving them languishing in 14th place. However, a spirited 2-2 draw against league leaders Liverpool showcased the team’s potential under their new manager, hinting at a possible turnaround.

Following the team’s improvement, Amorim has emphasized the need to bolster the squad. “When the window is open, we can try to do something, and we will try,” he stated. “With more time to train, we can improve, but we also need new players to help speed up the process.”

According to the Daily Telegraph, United are targeting Nuno Mendes to address a recognized weakness at left wing-back. Amorim sees the 22-year-old as the ideal solution, particularly with Mendes’ contract expiring in 18 months and the player showing no urgency to renew it. While talks are underway, it will be up to United to push the deal, as Mendes is unlikely to force a move.

Mendes, a top target for United, is favored over other options like Lecce’s Patrick Dorgu and Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez. PSG, who signed Mendes from Sporting CP for €38 million, are reportedly seeking a slight profit, setting his price at €40 million (£33.2 million, $41.7 million). United may need to sell players to finance the deal, with a new left wing-back being Amorim’s top priority, especially given the fitness struggles of Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia.

Amorim has been tight-lipped about specific transfer targets but remains focused on reinforcing the squad. In related news, United are close to offloading Casemiro to Al-Nassr, potentially freeing up funds. The Brazilian midfielder has struggled to adapt to the Premier League’s pace, and his departure could pave the way for more signings. Additionally, Antony is attracting interest from Real Betis and a reigning league champion, while United are also exploring a loan move for PSG striker Randal Kolo Muani.

Profile: Nuno Mendes

Mendes rose through Sporting CP’s academy under Amorim, making 47 appearances with one goal and three assists. Since joining PSG in 2021, Mendes has made 100 appearances, contributing two goals and two assists this season, averaging a direct goal contribution every 336.7 minutes. His dribbling skills, with an average of 1.4 successful dribbles per 90 minutes, and his attacking contributions make him a perfect fit for Amorim’s system, which relies on wing-backs to provide width and allow wingers to move infield.

Amorim’s vision for wing-backs is clear: “What I want is a good one-on-one, to open the field, to play, to close the field when we lose the ball. The structure is more fluid than it seems with the three defenders.” Mendes appears to embody this role perfectly, making him a key target for United’s January transfer plans.

Ruben Amorim’s intent to revamp Manchester United during the January transfer window is gaining momentum, with PSG’s **Nuno Mendes** emerging as a priority target for the left wing-back position. Here’s a breakdown of the situation:

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### **Nuno Mendes: The Ideal Fit**
– **Player Profile**:
Mendes is a dynamic left-back known for his pace, dribbling, and ability to contribute in attack.
– **Age**: 22
– **Current Club**: PSG
– **Contract Status**: Expiring in 18 months, with no signs of renewal.
– **Key Stats**:
– **Appearances for PSG**: 100 (2 goals, 2 assists this season).
– **Dribbling**: 1.4 successful dribbles per 90 minutes.
– **Goal Contributions**: Direct involvement every 336.7 minutes.

– **Amorim’s Vision**:
Mendes fits perfectly into Amorim’s system, which relies heavily on wing-backs for both width and defensive stability. Amorim praised Mendes’ versatility during their time at Sporting CP, and the player’s ability to combine defensive diligence with attacking flair aligns with United’s tactical needs.

– **PSG’s Asking Price**:
PSG seeks €40 million (£33.2m, $41.7m), which represents a modest profit over their original €38 million purchase. The price is considered reasonable for a player of Mendes’ caliber.

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### **Challenges for United**
– **Financial Constraints**:
To finance the deal, United may need to offload players. Potential departures include:
– **Casemiro**: Linked with Al-Nassr; his exit could free up significant funds.
– **Antony**: Attracting interest from Real Betis and other clubs.
– **Loan Deals**: Exploring temporary options for players like PSG striker Randal Kolo Muani.

– **Competition for Alternatives**:
Mendes is preferred over **Patrick Dorgu (Lecce)** and **Milos Kerkez (Bournemouth)**, but United will need to act decisively to avoid missing out on their top choice.

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### **Amorim’s Comments and Vision**
Amorim is confident in his ability to develop the squad but acknowledges the need for reinforcements:
– **On Transfers**:
> “When the window is open, we can try to do something, and we will try.”
– **On System**:
Mendes is seen as a player capable of excelling in a role that demands fluidity, one-on-one ability, and defensive organization.

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### **What’s Next?**
1. **Player Sales**: United must finalize key departures to create financial flexibility.
2. **Negotiations with PSG**: Talks are ongoing, but Mendes is unlikely to force a move, meaning United will need to persuade both the player and the club.
3. **January Activity**: Mendes is the centerpiece of Amorim’s January plans, but securing him could set the tone for additional signings aimed at revitalizing the squad.

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### **Fan Impact**
The potential acquisition of Mendes could address one of Manchester United’s most pressing weaknesses while reuniting Amorim with a trusted talent. Fans can anticipate a rejuvenated tactical approach, with Mendes playing a crucial role in United’s recovery this season.