Ruben Amorim says Manchester United have no plans for January transfers despite injuries and AFCON absences, focusing on the next game instead.
LONDON: Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim (pic) has ruled out making any new signings in the January transfer window.
Speaking ahead of Sunday’s match against Leeds United, Amorim said there are currently “no conversations” about reinforcing his depleted squad.
“The transfer window is not going to change,” Amorim said at his pre-match press conference. “We have no conversations in this moment to have any change in the squad.”
His stance appears firmer than two weeks ago when he said “we will see” about potential movement.
United are currently sixth in the Premier League, just three points off the top four, but have squandered recent opportunities to climb higher.
They drew 1-1 with bottom club Wolves in their last outing.
Amorim is dealing with significant absences due to injuries and the Africa Cup of Nations.
Captain Bruno Fernandes, Mason Mount, Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire are all sidelined.
The club is also without Africa Cup of Nations trio Amad Diallo, Bryan Mbeumo, and Noussair Mazraoui.
Eight players are expected to miss the trip to Elland Road.
Despite the shortages, Amorim insisted the club’s process remains unchanged.
“There’s a process, there’s an idea that is going to continue,” he said.
He added that no players have asked to leave the club during this window.
United have been linked with a move for Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo, who is reportedly joining Manchester City.
Joshua Zirkzee and Kobbie Mainoo have also been mentioned in exit rumours.
Amorim now wants his available players to focus solely on the next challenge.
“We are near the places of the Champions League, but we are near also… eight teams behind us, so let’s focus on the next game,” he stated.
Facing an in-form Leeds side unbeaten in six matches, Amorim acknowledged the hostile atmosphere awaiting his team.
Leeds are seeking their first home win over United since September 2002.
“Of course I will try to put a team that is ready to cope with that,” Amorim said.
He added that his players must be ready for the intense environment at Elland Road.
