Understandably, many Manchester United fans wish to see a fully packaged, brand new striker through the Old Trafford door in January.
Anthony Martial’s first start since September in Thursday’s League Cup win over Aston Villa was welcomed, but his injury woes coupled with Cristiano Ronaldo’s unclear future and Marcus Rashford’s tendency to prefer playing on the left leaves United light through the middle.
However, buying a striker in January seems unlikely. The United board have targeted the summer as their next main recruitment drive after spending £225m during the off-season.
READ MORE: Erik ten Hag made transfer statement with changes vs Aston Villa
However, United have a clearer void to fill. Aaron Wan-Bissaka's total omission from the squad despite being in full training is extremely ominous for the outcast, who has played just four minutes all season.
It thus seems very unlikely that he will play any part against Fulham on Sunday in United’s final game before the World Cup, despite Diogo Dalot’s suspension. The Qatar-bound Portugal international has come into his own this season, playing every game for the club so far.
However, his accumulation of yellow cards means he will sit out the trip to Craven Cottage which creates a dilemma. With Wan-Bissaka not fancied, Erik ten Hag will be forced to play someone out of position to fill the void.
There are several candidates for the honour, Tyrell Malacia possibly being one option. In truth, this situation was always the elephant in the room.
Luckily, Dalot’s absence is only through suspension and then the campaign pauses for the World Cup. But if Dalot picks up a long-term injury without ample cover then United have themselves hampered on the right.
It highlights the main shortfall Ten Hag has within his squad currently and makes it clear what type of player United should be signing in January. The club has competition all over the pitch aside from in the right-back position.
Bringing a player in midway through the season is never cheap, never mind after a World Cup. But it is a necessary pursuit for United and one Ten Hag is probably already looking into.
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