Shaw Nears Return to Fitness
Manchester United fans have been eagerly awaiting updates on Luke Shaw’s fitness, particularly after the left-back was absent for the 2-2 draw against Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford. According to a report from ESPN, Shaw is expected to make his long-awaited return during next weekend’s FA Cup fourth-round tie against Newport County. Shaw has been sidelined since Christmas, initially due to a minor injury, which was then followed by a bout of illness. His absence has been keenly felt by Erik ten Hag’s side, and his return will be a welcome boost as they embark on a busy schedule. The match against Newport, which will take United on a trip to Wales, looks set to mark his comeback.
In Shaw’s absence, the club made the decision to cut short Sergio Reguilon’s loan spell, and the Spanish defender has now moved on to Brentford, where he will remain until the end of the season. However, Shaw’s recovery comes at an ideal time, giving Ten Hag another option at left-back. While it remains unclear whether Shaw will start the game against Newport, it is highly likely that Ten Hag will be eager to ease him back into the squad and give him some minutes on the pitch as soon as possible. Additionally, on a more positive note for United, Tyrell Malacia is also expected to be available for selection again in the near future, further strengthening the team’s defensive options.
United Eye Loan Deal for Choupo-Moting
In other transfer news, Manchester United are reportedly ramping up their interest in signing Bayern Munich’s veteran striker, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, on a loan deal. With the January window often being a quiet period for the club’s business, fans may not have expected major signings, especially given the ongoing process of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s 25% stake in the club being ratified by the Premier League. This financial uncertainty has restricted the club’s ability to make permanent signings, leaving Erik ten Hag to work with limited resources. As a result, the focus has shifted towards securing loan deals, much like last season, when Wout Weghorst was brought in from Burnley to bolster United’s attack in mid-January. However, Weghorst struggled to make an impact, failing to score in 17 league appearances and netting only twice across 31 games in all competitions before returning to Turf Moor.
This season, United find themselves once again in need of attacking reinforcements, as their goal tally (24) is the lowest among the top 14 clubs in the Premier League. The club has been heavily reliant on young forward Rasmus Hojlund and the injury-prone Anthony Martial, both of whom could use additional support up front. Choupo-Moting, 34, has emerged as a cost-effective option to add depth to United’s attacking ranks. The Cameroon international would be available for a relatively modest loan fee, and although not a marquee signing, he could provide valuable experience and cover during the remainder of the campaign. United’s pursuit of Choupo-Moting demonstrates the pragmatic approach they are likely to take this January, focusing on temporary solutions to address immediate squad needs.
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