Although boss Sir Alex Ferguson will be hoping to see
his stars start to gel and move up through the gears in
the New Year, the Red Devils' squad isn't in need of major
surgery.
More likely, however, is the idea of a couple of United's fringe
players going out on loan, in order to stay fit and gain some first
team experience.
Reports have paid particular attention to Manucho, the powerful
25-year-old Angolan, who joined the club in January 2008 but hasn't
yet made a breakthrough.
The striker, who can also play on the left, was previously farmed
out to Greek side Panathinaikos, with French Ligue 1 team Le Havre
now said to be interested, along with a couple of Premier League
strugglers.
Still, Fergie has hinted that Manucho is still in his thoughts. The
wily Scot takes comfort from his belief in his fringe players, whom
he insists are a key part of United's strength.
He said: "Our pool of players is getting stronger as the younger
lads mature and come into the squad, knowing they will perform.
"I am thinking of players like Jonny Evans, Rafael, Darron
Gibson, Rodrigo Possebon, Danny Welbeck and Manucho.
"We have a good strong squad and I’m confident we have the men
for the task.
"We are only handful of points behind the leaders and we have a
good chance of winning the Premier League again."
Of course, Jonny Evans and Rafael da Silva have already played
in big matches this term, so perhaps there's hope yet for Manucho,
who came to England so highly rated.