‘Market is Open’: Manchester United’s Top 5 most likely signings after Mourinho comments?

Manchester United appear to have done their best summer business in years with the swashbuckling captures of Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Eric Bailly, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and the world record transfer of Paul Pogba.

But while Jose Mourinho was at pains to point out that he is happy with his squad in his press conference on Thursday, he did still flirt with the gathered media by stating that ‘the window is still open’. And without a categoric denial of further activity, tongues will continue to wag.

TFF looks at Manchester United’s possible further business in this window.

Gabriel Barbosa

His agent stated this week that there was no truth in rumours that ‘Gabigol’ was in contact with Manchester Unite about a move to Old Trafford.

But while Manchester United have Zlatan in the starting XI for this season at least, it’s easy to imagine that United will be looking for long-term solutions to strengthen a front line which has nothing else at number 9 beyond the sublime potential of Marcus Rashford.

And Barbosa looks like a wonderful prospect. At just 19 he’s a ruthless finisher and has already scored 58 goals for club and country.

Jose Fonte

The 32-year-old Portuguese has been linked with a move to Manchester United to shore up a talented but young centre of the defence.

His head surely must have been turned by the speculation and he said earlier this week:

“If the interest is there, it is a reason to be flattered to be associated with a club like Manchester United.”

Reece Oxford

TFF reported this week on how Jose Mourinho apparently views the brilliant youngster as a key player for the future. Oxford looks keen to commit his immediate future to The Hammers but if Manchester City were to make a move for the centre back then things could hot up quickly.

Fabinho

TFF thinks that Manchester United’s weak point is now at right full back. Antonio Valencia has been showing his best form in years under Jose Mourinho but it’s still early days and the Ecuadorian has flattered to deceive for the last few years. Timothy Fosu-Mensah has shown tremendous promise but perhaps won’t be trusted yet.

Fabinho (22), who has been periodically linked with a move to United, is older than Fosu-Mensah and has much more experience. He would be a wonderful addition to the side.

Raphael Varane

Another who seems keen to stay with his current club after saying:

‘Real Madrid is the best place for me to continue my career,’ Varane said.

‘It was a good decision to stay at Madrid. I believe in the club and I believe in the coach. I have spoken with him a lot and he has faith in me.

‘Zidane’s presence is one of the reasons behind my decision to stay.’

He wouldn’t offer the experience which so may onlookers believe that Jose is looking for at centre back. But with a player this good, age doesn’t matter.

TFF still thinks that he remains a target for Manchester United and Mourinho.