Carrick's strong start alters Manchester United's January transfer plans! Sir Jim may buy players to push for top-four, one player likely to transfer

Carrick's first game as manager, a 2-0 win against Manchester City, has changed Manchester United's situation. Following this round of the Premier League, the Red Devils are inside the top five, trailing fourth-placed Liverpool by only one point, giving them a strong chance to qualify for the Champions League. Consequently, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who observed the derby from Old Trafford, may be inclined to approve signings for Carrick.

Last week, Sir Jim and the Glazer family visited Carrington to meet potential investors for the new stadium project and also held talks with Carrick. This week, Manchester United's board will meet again to discuss club affairs, including whether to invest in the January transfer window, with Carrick participating in the discussions.

Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed: "Within the next few hours this week, Manchester United will hold an internal meeting, with Carrick involved, to decide on several matters. This includes the club's intended actions in the transfer market from now until the January window closes."

The positions United might strengthen are well-known to include midfield, and possibly the forward line too. The club previously aimed to sign Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo for £65 million, but lost out to Manchester City. These plans will also directly affect the future of 24-year-old Dutch striker Ciciretti.

Romano explained: "If Manchester United want to seize the opportunity to bring in a player, perhaps in midfield or elsewhere, they will decide together with Carrick. They might also revise their transfer strategy and continue with the current squad. In Italy, clubs like Roma and Juventus are waiting to see if United will open the door for Ciciretti's transfer. If United sign another player, they could approve Ciciretti's departure."

There are rumors that Manchester United have reached a three-year personal deal with Portuguese international Ruben Neves from Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal. However, British outlet Football Insider reports that Al Hilal's asking price could be a hurdle, demanding €23 million (£20 million) in transfer fees. This is quite high for a player whose contract expires this summer.

Last week, transfer expert Ben Jacobs revealed that Manchester United had negotiations with a "mystery" midfielder, possibly to loan him until the end of the season. The player's identity has not been confirmed, but one suggestion is England international Ruben Loftus-Cheek from AC Milan.

What is certain is that Manchester United currently have an excellent chance to finish in the Premier League's top five or even top four this season, securing a return to the Champions League. Participation would greatly boost the club's finances, guaranteeing at least £50 million in revenue and avoiding a £10 million reduction in Adidas sponsorship fees.

According to UEFA’s club coefficient rankings, the Premier League leads with nine teams in European competitions, scoring 103.658 points. Serie A follows with seven teams and 92.124 points, while La Liga has eight teams and 86.015 points. The top two leagues can gain an additional Champions League spot, so the Premier League is likely to maintain at least five participants this season.

Therefore, if Carrick’s results remain positive, it makes perfect sense for Sir Jim to invest in players for him, as the return on investment would be very valuable.