‎Man Utd Plot Shock January Move for AFCON Star After Goal vs INEOS-Owned Nice

‎Manchester United are weighing up an unexpected January move for an Africa Cup of Nations standout who found the net against INEOS-owned Nice earlier this season. Auxerre forward Lassine Sinayoko has emerged as a potential target, with the 26-year-old Mali international now firmly on the radar of United’s recruitment department ahead of the winter transfer window.

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‎Manchester United are considering a surprise January approach for Auxerre and Mali forward Lassine Sinayoko, while updates also emerge on Scott McTominay and Kobbie Mainoo.

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‎United Hold Talks Over Sinayoko Deal

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‎Reports from Africa Sport claim that United are keen to secure Sinayoko, whose current deal with Auxerre runs out next summer. The same report states that the Red Devils have already entered “serious negotiations” with both the player and his representatives, with the intention of bringing him to Old Trafford on a free transfer once his contract expires.

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‎United are understood to be pushing to conclude discussions this January, allowing Sinayoko to complete a move at the end of the 2025–26 season. Talks are said to be ongoing regarding personal terms, and the club hope to finalise an agreement in the near future. At present, Sinayoko is away on international duty, representing Mali at the AFCON tournament.

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‎The versatile attacker is capable of operating in several positions across the forward line, which appeals to head coach Ruben Amorim as he continues to reshape his attacking options. This interest comes despite United already recruiting Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko during the summer window.

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‎McTominay Linked With Potential United Return

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‎Elsewhere, Scott McTominay has enjoyed an eye-catching first season in Serie A after joining Napoli, playing a decisive role in their Scudetto triumph and earning the league’s MVP award. However, despite that success, challenges have surfaced behind the scenes, with Napoli currently sitting third in the table.

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‎According to The Sun, internal strains have begun to appear amid the intense attention McTominay receives in Naples. One source quoted in the report explained that while the midfielder has enjoyed aspects of life in Italy, the passion of the supporters can also be overwhelming, making everyday life away from football difficult.

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‎As a result, speculation has grown about a possible return to England, with Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United both credited with interest. Barcelona have also been mentioned among his admirers. Inevitably, these links have reignited debate over a potential reunion with Manchester United, given McTominay’s long-standing ties to the club.

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‎Uncertainty Surrounds Mainoo’s January Future

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‎Questions have also been raised about the future of young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo. The United academy graduate has struggled for game time this season under Amorim and is reportedly unhappy with his lack of opportunities. Reports suggest Mainoo is eager to leave Old Trafford on loan during the January window to secure regular minutes.

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‎Despite this, Amorim has publicly backed the England international. Speaking to Sky Sports, the United boss stressed his belief in Mainoo’s long-term importance to the club, highlighting his ability to play in multiple midfield roles and expressing confidence that he remains a key part of United’s future plans.

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‎What Lies Ahead for United?

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‎The calendar year of 2025 has proven difficult for Manchester United, with their problems spilling into the opening stages of the 2025–26 season. However, signs of improvement have emerged as Amorim’s side look to finish the year on a positive note.

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‎Following a 1-0 victory over Newcastle on Friday, United will aim to build momentum when they face relegation-threatened Wolves in their final fixture of the year on December 30.