Welcome to the United On My Mind daily round-up, where we take a look at some of the best Manchester United stories that you might have missed.
Cristiano Ronaldo reportedly wants to return to Real Madrid and has instructed his agent to broker a deal.
A United midfield target has been reported to already have 'one foot out of the door' as he expresses his dream of playing in the Premier League.
And finally, West Ham legend and first-team coach Stuart Pearce has confirmed that the Hammers will go in again to bring back Jesse Lingard.
Ronaldo’s Real return?
Despite his impressive return to Old Trafford, particularly in the Champions League, El Nacional have reported that United's star man is not happy as the doubts to secure a top-four finish is increasing.
The same report suggests Ronaldo has informed his agent to engineer a deal back to Spain as the idea of not playing Champions League football has exacerbated the Portuguese star.
Our view: This is an interesting report. Ronaldo has every right to demand a top-four finish as he's one of the most decorated players in the game's history. But Ronaldo doesn't seem to be the type to focus on his next move when there's still so much to play for in the season. Whether or not he does end up leaving is another matter, but it will be one that should only even be considered come to the end of the season.
United target at the exit door
United's search for a midfielder rambles on. Record have reported that Sporting Lisbon midfielder Joao Palhinha is nearing an exit from the club. The 26-year-old dreams of a move to the Premier League amid the interest from Tottenham Hotspur, Wolverhampton Wanderers and United. The report suggests if United want to sign Palhinha, they'll also need to fend off interest from Sevilla and Atletico, respectively.
Our view: It goes without saying- United need a midfielder. Despite Scott Mctominay and Fred putting in some solid performances this season, a defensive specialist is required in the heart of that midfield.
United fans would be open to Paul Scholes swapping the BT microphone for the football boots to see out the season at this stage!
Jokes aside, Palhinha is yet another player who would make a great addition. The fact that there are several names out there makes it even more confusing why United hasn't acted.
Lingard to West Ham could still be on
With his move to Newcastle collapsing, Lingard may be thrown a Hammers lifeline. Speaking on talkSPORT, former West Ham legend-turned-coach Stuart Pearce confirmed the club still want Lingard.
"Jesse is a commodity that isn't playing for his football club that will be of benefit to a lot of clubs in the Premier League that will be my personal opinion. Ours is certainly one of them. You know there's no doubt, everyone's aware that we tried to get Jesse back again last summer and that will continue, probably in this window as well. But that's down to Jesse."
Pearce continued: "Especially the contribution he came and joined us and he had a wonderful six months and got himself back in England as well. So it's helped Gareth as well.
So listen, I'll be delighted if he goes and plays wherever he goes and plays. He turns up for West Ham over the next three or four days. It'll be utopia."
Our view: What a sad state of affairs. Lingard has given his all since his time at United, and West Ham, who had the midfielder for just half a season, shows him more appreciation than his current side. Lingard deserves better and should be a regular for a team who realise how talented he is. With the Newcastle deal all but over, West Ham seems to be the perfect club for the Englishman.
Do you think Lingard should leave in January? Follow our United on my Mind trends writer Anil Kandola on Twitter to join in on the conversation, and let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
