Top 3 players linked with Manchester United right now

Manchester United are going through a mixed season so far. They are currently 6th in the table, have scored just 2 more goals than they have conceded in the 16 games played and have collected 26 points.

The Premier League giants are 12 points adrift of Arsenal at 5th and 16 points away from Manchester City at the top of the table. Even though they have already qualified for the knockout stages of the UEFA Champions League, the club desperately needs reinforcements in January to move further in the tournament.

Mourinho had been crying out for a defender in the summer, however, his wishes were not fulfilled. But keeping in mind the woeful display at the back this season, Manchester United could be forced to delve into the transfer market in January for a defender, among other players. Read on to find out the 3 players that United are linked to right now.

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#3 Kalidou Koulibaly (Senegal, Napoli)

SSC Napoli v Hellas Verona FC - Serie A

The Senegalese continues to be Jose Mourinho's top target in the new year and Koulibaly is now heavily linked to a move to Manchester United. According to the Sunday Times, Koulibaly is apparently interested in working with Jose Mourinho, which increases the likelihood of the deal coming through. However, Napoli are holding out for at least £90m, as the defenders integral to their plans this season.

Koulibaly has been monumental for the Serie A side for quite some time now and he would be an upgrade to current crop of defenders at United's disposal. The Napoli defender broke into the scene last season under the guidance of current Chelsea boss Sarri and was rock solid as Napoli pushed Juventus for a close title race.

After failing to secure any of the defensive targets in the summer and paying the consequences, Manchester United might be a little wary now. The quoted price for Koulibaly would be a big problem though, as United will probably have to sell to accommodate the deal.

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#2 Eder Militao (Brazil, Porto)

FC Porto v FC Schalke 04 - UEFA Champions League Group D

While the Koulibaly deal could deter Manchester United because of the mammoth finances involved, the Red Devils are reportedly looking at cheaper alternatives who would fit the bill. Currently in the Manchester United radar is Porto defender Eder Militao, who would cost them in the range of £45m.

The 20-year-old would also fit into the long-term plans at Old Trafford, with his young age making him a lucrative prospect. Ed Woodward is apparently reluctant in indulging on experienced aged stars, as is the preference of Jose Mourinho and instead wants to invest on youth. As such, Militao would also suit Woodward nicely.

The Brazilian only joined Porto from Sao Paulo in the summer and as such, prizing him away won't be easy. But United is rumoured to have sent scouts to watch Militao recently and as such, they might go all out for a move in January.

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#1 Mesut Özil (Germany, Arsenal)

AFC Bournemouth v Arsenal FC - Premier League

The German International has fallen out of favour at Arsenal in recent weeks. Ozil is currently nursing a back trouble, which has seen him sit out of the last 3 Premier League games, but Arsenal do not seem to miss him. It has been rumoured that the Gunners were keen on offloading their German midfielder in January, with Inter Milan interested. However, The Sportsman now claim that Manchester United lead the odds to sign him.

The German is apparently on a huge £350,000-per-week wages, and Arsenal is looking to free up their wage bill. As such, the talented midfielder could be available for as low as £25m, which would suit Manchester United well. Ozil has 4 goals and 1 assist from 12 appearances this season so far, but his talent and quality is unquestionable. Manchester United could do with a player of his creative genius in their team, but the question is, will the Gunners be willing to sell him to the Red Devils? Only time will tell.

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