The January transfer window is fast approaching and Ralf Rangnick has already hinted at his perfect midfield signing.
Manchester United have been heavily linked with Amadou Haidara since Ralf Rangnick’s arrival at the club.
Rangnick was appointed as United’s interim manager in late November and he’s yet to be beaten across his three games in charge of the club. The German will coach United until the end of the season and he will move into a consultancy position after that.
The 63-year-old will seek to instil a clear philosophy and identity at Old Trafford – Rangnick has influenced Jurgen Klopp, Thomas Tuchel and Julian Nagelsmann throughout his career – and his vast wealth of knowledge will be invaluable in redirecting United.
It’s also expected that Rangnick will have an influence on the Reds’ transfer policy when he moves into the consultancy role.
However, Rangnick is currently interim manager and he recently stated that it’s too soon to discuss potential January transfers.
The winter window opens in just 16 days, though, and the Manchester Evening News understands any incomings at the club will be unlikely unless United can facilitate some outgoings, with players like Jesse Lingard and Phil Jones facing uncertain futures.
United have made plans to strengthen in midfield next and Rangnick might have already identified the perfect player for a move.
Rangnick’s previous comments on Haidara have now resurfaced and they show the German is a big admirer of the midfielder – Rangnick signed Haidara two years ago for RB Leipzig – who has been regularly linked with a transfer to United in January.
“We’re delighted to have signed Amadou. We’ve been following his progress in Salzburg, as he’s developed into an absolutely exceptional player there,” Rangnick said in 2019, as quoted by Bundesliga.com.
“There aren’t many players his age with so much potential. He has all the requirements.”
Rangnick is also on record as labelling Haidara as a ‘top player’ and the pair could rekindle their partnership at United, as the player has previously made his love for the Reds no secret. “My dream club is Manchester United,” Haidara told FootMali.com in October 2019.
“I will fight with all my strength to one day play for that club.”
Haidara, 23, has made 17 appearances for RB Leipzig this season and is said to have a release clause around the £33m mark.
