Transfer Window Analysis: Manchester United

On the move? Wayne Rooney is unhappy at Old Trafford

It's that time of year where rumours surface faster than a killer whale on a seal hunt, as Christian Crowther starts his team-by-team assessment... 

Will they have much to spend?
Never shy of spending a bob or two the much maligned Glazer family have actually transpired to be model owners in recent seasons. Unlike other wealthy investors (naming no names), the American brothers readily make funds available without feeling the need to sign players themselves and that shouldn't alter, even now Sir Alex Ferguson has stepped down. Robin van Persie's 24 million transfer last summer being a perfect example of their generosity. 

Have they done any business yet?
David Moyes has made his first signing though little-known Uruguayan Guillermo Valera, a 20-year-old right-back on trial at Old Trafford last season, is highly unlikely to be the last this window. As per, United have been linked with many stellar names, with Barcelona duo Cesc Fabregas and Thiago Alcantara among them, though the former appears to have ruled himself out. Rumours surrounding a move for unsettled Borussia Dortmund striker Robert Lewandowski look set to persist also.

What do they need?
If the Red Devils are to succeed in their 3.39/4 rated quest to defend their Premier League crown then they'll need to strengthen, especially with their noisy neighbours having made significant transfer inroads already. Given Danny Welbeck's less-than modest return of one top-flight goal last season and Wayne Rooney's desire to leave, bringing in another striker looks imperative. Meanwhile, Paul Scholes' second retirement and an over-reliance on Michael Carrick last season leaves room for another high-class centre midfielder. 

Who would be a good fit?
Having just witnessed a midfield master-class from Spanish U21 skipper Alcantara in the Euro finals, the Barcelona youth product would be perfect for United. He has marvellous technique and like Carrick can set the tempo with his passing and importantly; is young enough to stay for many years to come. Equally, Lewandowski's obvious striking abilities make the Pole the perfect replacement for Rooney, to play alongside van Persie. 

Is there anyone they'll struggle to keep?
After handing in a second transfer request this season even a quiet word from his former mentor Moyes looks highly unlikely to keep Rooney at United. The England striker is now 1.845/6 to be granted his wish to leave, though his destination is as yet unclear. Paris St Germain is regularly mooted, though that move may have to wait until the Parisians have sorted their own managerial situation.