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.
John Murtough has reportedly whittled United's potential midfield signing to three names, including two English stars.
With him failing to have a sustained run of games within the side, Donny van de Beek has been linked with a move away from Old Trafford, but he won't be going to Newcastle United.
And finally, outcast Anthony Martial has been offered a lifeline by one of Italy's biggest clubs amid his apparent desires to leave United.
Then there were three
United's midfield issues are no secret, and it feels as if the progression of the team under the new management and the years to come will be defined by who comes into the heart of that side. Reports suggest three names are left in the race to the Old Trafford midfield.
The Athletic have reported that John Murtough has whittled down the midfield targets to three names: Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham, with the latter emerging as the primary target.
Our view : Either one of these players would be a brilliant signing which would excite fans. Both have incredible attributes in all areas and are box-to-box midfielders. However, United need a specialist defensive midfielder, whereas they seem to enjoy the attacking side of the game.
Don't get me wrong; United could do with a player like that considering the almost certain departure of Paul Pogba and perhaps others. However, it would seem they'd still need a midfielder who solely enjoys sitting in front of the back four to add protection.
Donny denies
Van de Beek has arguably been the most frustrating situation in quite some time. Not because of his attitude or commitment or not because he isn't good enough but simply because he hasn't been given a significant opportunity to play. Several reports claim he's on his way out, but one place he won't be going is Tyneside.
The Telegraph claims Van de Beek has rejected a loan move to Newcastle United despite the strong interest shown by the struggling side because of their somewhat concerning league position.
Our view : Initially, as United fans, this may signify that Van de Beek is staying and will wait patiently to get his chance.
Despite them becoming the wealthiest club globally, Newcastle cannot obtain any player they like based on their financial situation. Football is about much more than that for some players, like van de Beek. It would be a rather interesting scenario if a team came in for the Dutchman who were doing well, which would almost certainly test his temperament.
Martial thrown a lifeline
Martial has been in the headlines over the past few weeks, but for all the wrong reasons. His failure to perform at an acceptable standard has seen him left out of the squad and seeking a way out.
His situation has continued to dominate headlines this week, with interim boss Ralf Rangnick claiming the Frenchman refused to travel for the squad's trip to Aston Villa. The player denied this wholeheartedly, but reports suggest he may have his way out.
According to Calciomercato, the forward has attracted interest from Juventus. The report claims Martial is one of the players the Italian giants are 'evaluating' to bolster their attacking options.
Our view: It'a time to come to terms with the fact Martial has not fulfilled his potential at Old Trafford. United should sell him at the earliest chance they get and try to generate some of the money back from what they spent on getting the Frenchman to Manchester.
Regardless of this cat and mouse game with Rangnick, it's been clear for quite some time Martial needs a new challenge in the hope of getting his career back on track.
Who do you think United should sell? 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.
