Unexpected: Manchester United is negotiating to acquire a two-time Premier League champion midfielder as a squad reinforcement this January, meeting the Red Devils' needs.
On 22 January 2026, Talksport, a leading English football media outlet, reported that Manchester United, a Premier League giant, has devised a new plan to strengthen their midfield during the January winter transfer window.
Manchester United aims to finish in the top four to secure a spot in the UEFA Champions League. However, it is believed that the club's executive group, INEOS, may not provide significant funds for interim manager Michael Carrick, who will lead the team until the end of this season.
Recently, Talksport revealed that Manchester United has begun negotiations to loan Ruben Loftus-Cheek, an English international midfielder from AC Milan, the current Serie A runners-up, this month. The goal is to replace Manuel Ugarte, who has been underperforming.
Sources say that Ruben Loftus-Cheek, who previously played for Chelsea, Crystal Palace, and Fulham, wants to return to the Premier League after losing his starting position at AC Milan. This season, he has appeared in 23 matches but started only 12, scoring 1 goal and providing 1 assist.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek possesses the qualities Manchester United seeks in midfield: the power to drive the ball forward and physical strength. He also brings experience, having won two Premier League titles and one Europa League trophy with Chelsea.
However, Manchester United faces competition from Premier League rival Aston Villa, who also want to sign Ruben Loftus-Cheek to strengthen their squad. Villa needs a replacement for key defensive midfielder Boubacar Kamara, who suffered a knee injury that could sideline him for the remainder of the season.
