The January transfer window is typically much, much quieter than the summer. However, rumours are flying out of Italy, with top teams across Europe not living up to expectations. This January transfer window could be set for some big moves in and out of Italy. This article focuses on Manchester United and their Serie A links.

The future of Marcus Rashford

Marcus Rashford is set to leave his boyhood club, Manchester United. In an announcement at the end of December, Rashford revealed that he was ready for a new chapter, having been with Manchester United since the age of seven. The winger has been linked with several clubs in Italy, with the two main contenders being AC Milan and Juventus. Both moves would likely be on loan. With interest from clubs across England and Europe, Rashford is expected to make the move this month.

The 27-year-old has often been made a scapegoat for Manchester United during their difficult period since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure in 2013. Rashford was widely tipped as one of the most promising players to emerge from the Manchester United academy. However, he has failed to live up to those lofty expectations. Despite enjoying a couple of good seasons, external pressures and many pundits suggesting he has a poor attitude mean that a move away from Manchester could be exactly what Rashford needs to rejuvenate his career.

AC Milan have met with Rashford’s brother and his camp to discuss a loan move (Fabrizio Romano). Juventus have also made contact. Despite AC Milan having Rafael Leão on the left (and Pulisic in fine form as well), they still seem interested in signing such a marquee player. Juventus, however, could perhaps benefit more from the winger, as he would have a clear pathway into the first team. Yildiz is versatile across the front three, while Conceição is much stronger on the right. With Vlahović misfiring, Rashford could bring some much-needed firepower to the Juventus attack.

Another club I have personally identified as a potential destination for Rashford is Inter Milan. Inter would provide the quality and title-challenging environment into which Rashford could seamlessly transition. The main two reasons Inter Milan could afford his wages, if a permanent deal were agreed, are their financial stability and the chance for Rashford to play a role similar to Marcus Thuram’s this season. Thuram, a forward who has the ability to drift off of either wing and operate down the central channel, has excelled by using his pace and power to get in behind defences. Rashford would be an ideal fit for this role, offering strong competition and reliable backup for Thuram, who has suffered several injuries since joining.

With Martínez struggling for form this season and Taremi failing to make much of an impact, Rashford could provide ample support up front. He is also likely to form a productive partnership with players like Barella and Çalhanoğlu, both of whom have the passing range and work rate to complement Rashford’s style of play.

Joshua Zirkzee- The Return?

Joshua Zirkzee, it is safe to say, has not found his feet at Old Trafford. Here on Osservando, it was noted when he made the move that he was a different profile to Højlund, and we felt he did not suit Ten Hag’s playing style. A tumultuous few months and the arrival of new manager Ruben Amorim have only compounded Zirkzee’s struggles, with the young striker being substituted after just 33 minutes to jeers from Manchester United fans—a damning moment for any young player.

It may have been unfair for fans to turn on such a young talent so quickly, but the unfortunate truth is that Zirkzee has not performed well for the Red Devils at all. He has since been linked with a loan move to regain his confidence and showcase his ability, with Serie A emerging as his most likely destination.

Both a reunion with Thiago Motta at Juventus and a move to AC Milan have been suggested for the Dutchman. Either move could do the 23-year-old a world of good. As previously mentioned, Vlahović has been inconsistent, and Zirkzee would offer a different profile of player, providing Motta with another option. Meanwhile, AC Milan, who showed interest in the summer, are less likely to make a move for Zirkzee now. With concrete interest in Rashford (see above) and with Morata and Abraham already in the squad, Zirkzee’s game time at Milan would likely be limited.

Patrick Dorgu- the perfect wingback for Amorim?

The 20-year-old Danish international has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs as well as Manchester United, including Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur. Dorgu would be a perfect fit for Amorim’s system. With the left wing back position being a particular problem area, with no out and out player fully fit in that position. Dalot has been a makeshift left wing back but his performances have been inconsistent this season. Dorgu would offer the attacking prowess would fit Manchester United.

Dorgu’s versatility is notable; although primarily a left-back, he has been deployed as a right-winger this season, showcasing his adaptability on both flanks. This flexibility could be advantageous for Manchester United, particularly under manager Ruben Amorim’s tactical setups. As Jamie Carragher highlighted on MNF, Amorim likes his wing backs high and wide, to provide an outlet from the defence. They also need to be able to drive with the ball. Dorgu is the type of profile for this, especially when compared to United’s other full backs.

Lecce, however, are expected to demand a substantial fee for Dorgu, with previous reports suggesting a valuation of up to €40 million. Given Manchester United’s current financial constraints and the need to manage debt, meeting this asking price could pose a challenge. Additionally, competition from other clubs within the Serie A, including Napoli, who have reportedly been attempting to engineer a deal, adds complexity to the potential transfer. With many journalists and fans wanting Dorgu to stay in the Serie A and develop, rather than take a huge risk by joining a tumultuous Manchester United.