Rumour: Manchester United's 12-man hit-list for January

Cristian Zapata – AC Milan

Cristian Zapata

Manchester United need re-enforcements in a number of positions, one of which is the centre of defence. With Rio Ferdinand past his prime and likely to retire at the end of the season, and with the likes of Chris Smalling and Phil Jones yet to impress, the manager will look to dip into the January transfer window to consolidate his defensive options.

The 27-year old has been in inspired form for the Rossineri this season, despite the club languishing in the bottom half of the Italian Serie A. Zapata could be available on the cheap for around 5 million pounds, and would really be a coup for Moyes, if he manages to pull it off. Although, Zapata has insisted that he is happy at Milan and has no immediate plans of leaving.

Koke – Atletico Madrid

Another top United target

This comes following speculation of Koke being heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford this January. David Moyes was seen at the Vincente Calderon earlier this season, said to be scouting the young sensation. The 21-year old has been brilliant for his side this season, raking in an impressive 8 assists in 17 appearances, second only to Cesc Fabregas in the La Liga.

The Spanish international has only 18 months left on his contract, and the Red Devils are ready to pounce on the player, who according to reports will cost them around £30 million.

Ander Herrera – Athletic Bilbao:

Please, let me leave!

After last deadline’s hilarious turn of events, which saw the Basque outfit hold on to their prized asset. Herrera to United is one that hasn’t gone away, despite comments to the contrary from the parties involved. The Spanish midfielder has endured a difficult time at Bilbao since Ernesto Valverde took the reins from Marcelo Bielsa at the beginning of the season.

Herrera has made 12 appearances for Bilbao in La Liga this season. He started one of those games on the bench and has been substituted in seven of them. Herrera prefers to play a deep-lying playmaker role somewhere in which United lack both depth and quality.