Manchester United are reportedly planning transfer meetings with two of their senior stars ahead of the January window, as the club looks to make big decisions on their futures.

Manchester United are entering a critical phase of the season both on and off the pitch, with reports revealing that the club will hold crucial transfer meetings with two of their senior stars — Kobbie Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee — ahead of the January transfer window. According to sources close to Old Trafford, these meetings could shape not only the club’s immediate plans but also determine how manager Rúben Amorim’s long-term project unfolds.

The decision to organize these talks comes amid growing uncertainty and discontent within the dressing room. United’s season has been turbulent, marked by inconsistent performances and ongoing debates about the manager’s tactical system. Amorim’s bold, high-intensity 3-4-3 formation — a structure built on pressing and fluid positional play — has left some players struggling to adapt, including two of the club’s most talented individuals in Mainoo and Zirkzee.

For Kobbie Mainoo, the situation feels especially delicate. The 20-year-old midfielder, who broke through last season as one of the most promising English talents, now finds himself on the periphery. Despite his immense potential and technical brilliance, Mainoo has been restricted to limited minutes this campaign, with Amorim opting for a more physically robust midfield trio led by Manuel Ugarte and Bruno Fernandes. The young midfielder’s frustration has reportedly grown, and his representatives are said to be pushing for clarity over his role moving forward.

Mainoo’s story resonates deeply with Manchester United supporters because he represents the continuation of the club’s proud youth tradition. Ever since the days of Sir Alex Ferguson and the legendary “Class of ‘92,” United have been defined by their commitment to academy graduates. However, if Mainoo’s game time continues to dwindle, there’s a genuine fear that this long-standing legacy could be disrupted. Italian champions Napoli have already expressed interest in signing him on loan, with an option to buy, as they look to strengthen their midfield for the Serie A title race.

Inside Old Trafford, opinions are divided. Some senior figures believe Mainoo should stay and fight for his place, while others argue that a temporary move could accelerate his development. A club insider reportedly told BBC Sport, “Kobbie is the future, but we need to balance potential with performance. If he can’t get consistent minutes, it might be better for him to grow elsewhere — for now.” The next few weeks could prove decisive in determining whether Mainoo remains part of Amorim’s long-term vision or seeks opportunities abroad.

Meanwhile, Joshua Zirkzee’s situation is equally complicated. The Dutch forward arrived from Bologna last summer in a highly anticipated £36.5 million deal, expected to complement Rasmus Højlund and add versatility to United’s frontline. But instead of flourishing, Zirkzee has struggled to secure regular starts. Amorim’s system often relies on a single central forward, with Højlund preferred for his pace and pressing ability. This has relegated Zirkzee to brief cameo appearances, limiting his influence on the team’s attack.

Reports from Sky Sports claim that Zirkzee has already voiced frustration privately, fearing that his lack of game time could harm his chances of making the Netherlands squad for the 2026 World Cup. His playing style — characterized by technical finesse, hold-up play, and creative link-ups — doesn’t seem to align perfectly with Amorim’s tactical setup, which prioritizes direct transitions and speed. As a result, both AC Milan and Borussia Dortmund are reportedly monitoring his situation closely ahead of January.

These potential exits come at a time when United’s overall project under Amorim is under scrutiny. The Portuguese manager was brought in to restore structure, discipline, and identity after Erik ten Hag’s dismissal, but progress has been slow. United currently sit mid-table, struggling for rhythm, and the mood around Carrington is said to be tense. Still, Amorim remains confident that his long-term philosophy will yield results — but to do so, he must have players fully aligned with his vision.

Financially, the club is also walking a fine line. Under Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), United must carefully balance spending and income to avoid penalties. Selling or loaning fringe players like Zirkzee or Mainoo could free up funds for January reinforcements, with Amorim reportedly eyeing players such as Viktor Gyökeres, Matheus Cunha, and Jarrad Branthwaite. According to The Athletic, football director John Murtough’s priority is to “reshape the squad without compromising financial stability.”

United’s fanbase, known for its passionate opinions, is already split on the issue. Some believe Amorim should trust youth and allow Mainoo to play through mistakes, while others insist that results must come first. On forums like Reddit’s r/reddevils, supporters debate whether the club’s focus should be short-term success or long-term development. Whatever happens next, it’s clear that the January window will be one of the most defining in recent United history.

As the transfer clock ticks toward January 1st, Manchester United’s next moves could determine the direction of their entire season. Will Mainoo and Zirkzee fight for their place in Amorim’s new era, or will they become casualties of a tactical revolution still in transition? The answers, it seems, are coming soon — and the stakes at Old Trafford have rarely felt higher.