Manchester United: Top 5 transfer targets for January

David Moyes will be looking to strengthen United’s defense in the January transfer window

The summer transfer window may have shut now, but managers and fans alike are busy assessing their teams post the transfer season, wondering what might have been if they had gotten all things right.

The January window gives an opportunity to reinforce confidence into teams which have been lacking thus far. For the bigger clubs, some transfers are solely carried out for the upcoming knock-out rounds of Champions League.

Manchester United was peculiarly silent in the first half of the transfer window. No major transfers took place, and motivating Wayne Rooney to stay put at United was the only action coming from Old Trafford.

A number of big names were linked to United, notably Cesc Fabregas and Leighton Baines and of course, through the rumor mills, Ronaldo. The transfer of Marouane Fellaini was finally solemnized at the 11th hour.

David Moyes and United must surely be looking for reinforcements come January. Here’s a look at the top five potential transfer targets for United.

1. Ander Herrera

Ander Herrera

United tried to make last-minute approaches for the Athletico Bilbao midfielder, but failed to sign the player. The Spaniard must be on Moyes’ mind as his winter target, as he is quite the player United are in need of at the moment. He can play as a defensive or central midfielder, as well as behind the striker.

The United faithful certainly should remember the 24-year-old, as they were outdone by Bilbao in the Europa League over two legs in 2012.

Since then the expectation that the young Spaniard will move to new pastures has gained momentum, and this time United should be careful not to leave things too late.

2. Fabio Coentrao

Fabio Coentrao

The unsuccessful pursuit of Everton’s left back, Baines, led Moyes to negotiate a deadline-day deal for Madrid’s Fabio Coentrao.

Despite signs leading up to a successful transfer, the deal fell through at the last minute, mainly due to Madrid’s failed attempt to find a replacement.

Coentrao is increasingly looking out of favor this season, having featured in one match under Ancelotti and Moyes will be looking to strengthen his defense and provide some contest for Patrice Evra.

3. Ross Barkley

Ross Barkley

Both Manchester United and Chelsea are said to be interested in the Everton midfielder, owing to his impressive form in the Premier League.

The young 19- year-old has worked closely with Moyes during his time at Everton, and is seen by most people as the next big player for England after Wayne Rooney.

Everton will surely not let their man go so easily, and both clubs will be ready with bids in the region of 20 million pounds for the Englishman.

4. Ezequiel Garay

Ezequiel Garay

The Benefica centre back has emerged as another top target for manager Moyes. The United defense has clearly been shaky, and the after the recent rout by City, Moyes must be looking to add some steel to his team defensively.

Seen as a clear replacement for Rio Ferdinand, Garay has been in the look-books of United for a long time and this January we may see him in a red United shirt.

5. Eliaquim Mangala

Eliaquim Mangala

The Porto defender is increasingly being followed by a number of clubs and a winter bid for the Frenchman by United seems much likely.

Another player viewed as a long-term replacement for Ferdinand, the player boats of a strong physical presence and aerial ability. His preferred position is that of the centre-half and with age showing its signs on Ferdinand and Vidic, United will be contemplating the lack of high-quality centre-backs at their disposal.