'It's a real priority' - Man United set sights on multiple signings ahead of January
Manchester United will prioritise the addition of new defensive options in the 2027 transfer windows, sources have told Football Insider.
Michael Carrick has concerns about his current options at the back, and after failing to address major problem positions in the summer, plans are now being put in place.
The addition of a new left-back has been high on the wish list at Old Trafford for a while now, while there is also a belief they may be in need of new centre-backs as well.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, a defensive overhaul is now on the cards at Man United ahead of the January transfer window.
The Red Devils addresed their attacking options in 2025's summer window and installed a new-look midfield in 2026, with 2027's focus now set on Carrick's back five.
Man United may be reluctant to spend big in January on some of their more high-profile targets and are prepared to wait until the summer, but see their defence as a priority.
Why do Man United want defensive reinforcements?
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown warned Football Insider on 24 September that Carrick has been "set up to fail" by the club's failure to address key positions.
After what has been a slow start to the Premier League season, with just one win from their opening five games, the lack of defensive stability has become a major concern.
Whether that is addressed in January or in next summer's transfer window, plans are being put in place behind the scenes to bring in reinforcements in those key areas.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "I expect Manchester United to try and strengthen their defence in the next couple of transfer windows.
"They didn't do anything in the summer window to strengthen in that position which now looks like it will be a real priority for them.
"A few of the players in that current back line are getting older and have had a few injury problems in recent seasons, so it's definitely an area of the team that they want to strengthen.
"Michael Carrick will be looking for new additions at the back after they refreshed their attack and then their midfield in the last couple of summer windows."
Which other positions could Man United strengthen?
Alongside their defensive woes, there are other areas of Carrick's squad which have emerged as potential concerns ahead of the upcoming transfer windows.
While the additions of new defenders will be a priority come January, the Red Devils could also look to strengthen up front amid a lack of quality strength in depth.
Football Insider revealed on 3 October that Man United could make a move to sign Crystal Palace star Jean-Philippe Mateta if they lose Joshua Zirkzee in January.
Meanwhile, potential injury issues would also expose the lack of depth and natural options to lead the line, despite having plenty of players who can play makeshift roles.
Whether it is Mateta or another attacking option, a move for a more natural centre-forward could also be considered if circumstances change at Old Trafford.