Manchester United are continuing to monitor the situation of Vinícius Júnior at Real Madrid, with senior figures at Old Trafford assessing whether a marquee wide-forward signing could be possible in the January transfer window.
Context: The Old Trafford Briefing
The Manchester Evening News reports that Vinícius is one of the high-profile names being discussed internally as United prepare for a significant period of squad activity. United’s recruitment department is braced for a complex winter window, with several first-team players facing uncertain futures and the club’s performance levels fluctuating ahead of the festive schedule. The recent 1–0 defeat to Everton halted a five-game unbeaten run and exposed, once again, the lack of consistent match-winners in Ruben Amorim’s attacking options.
Vinícius, who is currently navigating an uneasy spell in Madrid, has been highlighted as the type of elite, game-changing wide forward United have lacked in recent seasons. Though there is no indication that Madrid intend to sell mid-season, the winger’s reluctance to extend a contract running to 2027 — and reports of tension with manager Xabi Alonso — has ensured that clubs across Europe remain attentive.
United’s interest is long-standing, but the current moment adds an extra layer of intrigue. The club’s recruitment discussions this week have centred around potential opportunities in January, with the Manchester Evening News noting that high-level decision-makers, including Sir Jim Ratcliffe and sporting director Jason Wilcox, are working through a broad set of scenarios.
Squad Shake-Up Pending
Amorim, meanwhile, continues preparations at Carrington knowing that he may lose several players to the Africa Cup of Nations next month. Bryan Mbeumo, Noussair Mazraoui and Amad Diallo are all set to depart, stretching squad depth in attacking positions. United want to maintain upward momentum in the Premier League, and adding top-level firepower remains a priority.
Internal discussions have also touched on the futures of Kobbie Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee, both of whom have fallen out of favour in recent weeks. A reshaped attacking unit in January is, therefore, not being ruled out, particularly if suitable offers arrive for fringe players and those seeking greater minutes.
At the same time, the uncertainty surrounding Casemiro continues to hover in the background. The Brazilian midfielder is out of contract in the summer, and United face a decision over whether to cash in during January or risk losing him for free in 2026. Such movements could influence the scale of business United pursue further up the pitch.
What Happens Next?
Vinícius, valued at well over £100 million, remains an ambitious target. A mid-season transfer would be exceptionally difficult, but United view the next two windows as crucial in shaping a squad capable of matching Amorim’s tactical demands. Should the opportunity arise — either through a damaged relationship in Madrid or a softening stance from the Spanish champions — the club wants to be positioned to respond quickly.
For now, the situation remains fluid. Madrid are focused on their title charge and remain hopeful that tensions can be smoothed over with their star winger. However, Vinícius’ refusal to extend his deal has already encouraged Premier League sides to re-evaluate their interest, with United and Liverpool among those paying closest attention.