The new year is upon us, and with it comes the reopening of the transfer window.
Jose Mourinho only made three additions to his squad in the summer, nevertheless, with a total spend of £150m, United were still up there as one of the biggest spenders in Europe.
With half the season gone, it’s time to take a look at how the new additions have fared.
1. Romelu Lukaku
Romelu Lukaku – who is currently sidelined with a head injury – was signed by Manchester United from Everton for an initial £75m in the summer. The Red Devils beat off competition from a number of other clubs for the Belgian’s signature; including Premier League champions Chelsea.
The 24-year-old, who netted a total 68 Premier League goals for Everton, made a blistering start to his Manchester United career, scoring four times in his first three competitive games. The goals have somewhat dried up since then however, and the Belgian has finished the first half of this season with ten Premier League goals, eight behind top scorer Harry Kane – but only two behind City’s Sergio Aguero.
Rating: 6.5/10
2. Victor Lindelof
United completed the summer signing of Victor Lindelof from Benfica for £31m. Upon his arrival, the Swedish international became United’s most expensive defender; surpassing the £29m paid for Rio Ferdinand back in 2002.
Lindelof – who was instrumental for Benfica as they won their domestic double – struggled to adapt to the physicality of the Premier League, and didn’t play a part in Mourinho’s starting squad till November. He has, however, started United’s last four games, and the 23-year-old finally seems to be gaining in confidence as his performances improve.
Rating: 6/10
3. Nemanja Matic
Nemanja Matic – United’s third summer buy – was reunited with Jose Mourinho from Premier League champions Chelsea for £40m. The Serbian was surplus to requirements at Stamford Bridge, following the signing of Monaco’s France international Tiemoue Bakayoko.
Matic, who arrived having missed pre-season, has enjoyed a mixed bag of performances for United so far this season. Nevertheless, the defensive midfielder, who has played just under 2000 minutes of Premier League football for the Red Devils so far this term, has helped instil some steal to United’s midfield which has been lacking in recent seasons.
Rating: 7/10
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