NEWS NEWS BLOG SPORT examines what could happen at Manchester United in January.
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| Could Louis van Gaal be tempted to make a move for Cristiano Ronaldo? |
Louis van Gaal’s time at Manchester United appears to be running out.
The Dutchman has come under increasing pressure this season with his philosophy being questioned by pundits and fans alike.
Van Gaal's focus on control in a league where no team seems capable of it, looks ill-suited to his players and out-dated.
He doesn't appear to encourage risk or spontaneity and seems to be partially culpable for Wayne Rooney's deterioration.
Under Van Gaal United have no doubt become much more solid at the back but at what cost?
In 15 games in all competitions since the start of October, they have four wins, seven draws, four defeats and have scored just 14 goals.
Already out of the Capital One Cup, the Champions League and currently on a winless run of six games, they are nine points behind Premier League leaders Leicester City.
Faith is fading in Van Gaal, and a big January could be needed if the 64-year-old wants to stay at Old Trafford until the end of his deal in 2017.
Here News News Blog Sport takes a look at what could be done to rescue United’s campaign?
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| Manchester United are without a win in six games |
What do they need?
United are in desperate need of a striker.
With both Rooney and Anthony Martial - the Red Devils’ only recognised strikers - struggling in front of goal the club will be looking to add some much needed fire power in January.
They could also add some much needed creativity in midfield with chances created few and far between.
In their defeat to Bournemouth, Van Gaal was forced to start with the inexperienced Guillermo Varela, Paddy McNair, Daley Blind and Cameron Borthwick-Jackson in defence, so cover at the back is also needed.
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| Man Utd are reportedly ready to bid for Riyad Mahrez in January |
How much can they spend?
United will be able to spend heavily in the transfer market.
Van Gaal has spent over £250million already since arriving at Old Trafford and could get more in January as he looks to sort out the club's on-field problems.
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| Robert Lewandowski has been in great form for Bayern Munich this season |
Who might they sign?
United have been heavily linked with a £51m bid for Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski.
The Polish international, who has 29 goals in 30 games this term, is also attracting interest from Real Madrid.
Former United star Cristiano Ronaldo could be set for a move back to Old Trafford.
Ronaldo has repeatedly stated that he doesn't see himself seeing out the rest of his career at the Bernabeu, and United are ready to pounce.
His Madrid team-mate Gareth Bale could also be a target.
In-form Leicester midfielder Riyad Mahrez has also been linked with a move to United after a stunning first half of the season.
But the £29m rated ace has indicated he is happy with the Foxes for now.
The club have been repeatedly linked with a move for Mats Hummels in the past and could reignite their interest in the Borussia Dortmund star as they look to add experience ego their defence.
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| Phil Jones hasn't featured much since his return from injury |
Who could leave?
Nick Powell could be one name set to leave Old Trafford after struggling for game time under Van Gaal.
Victor Valdes, who has been ousted from the club’s first-team squad, is another who could be set to leave.
And Phil Jones and Ashley Young have fallen out of favour under Van Gaal and could seek regular first-team football.
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