Manchester United could still make a late move in the January transfer window after Michael Carrick refused to rule out further business before Monday’s deadline.
Speaking after Patrick Dorgu was ruled out with a hamstring injury, Carrick admitted the situation could yet change, despite United previously signalling they would only act if the right opportunity emerged.
“We’re just working through it,” Carrick said. “Never say never because a lot can happen and situations can be thrown up, sometimes it’s in our control and sometimes it’s not.”
Patrick Dorgu injury forces Manchester United rethink
Dorgu has been one of United’s standout performers in recent weeks, starting the last two matches on the left side and scoring against both Manchester City and Arsenal.
The Denmark international picked up his injury at the Emirates and is expected to miss a couple of weeks.
Carrick accepted the timing was far from ideal but stressed that the squad must be able to cope.
“It’s not ideal, of course it’s not, we don’t want to lose good players from the group,” he said. “But that is part of having a squad and assembling a squad. We’ve got players who can do that.”
Man Utd January transfer plans
United have consistently maintained throughout January that they would not rush into short-term deals.
However, Carrick’s comments suggest conversations are still taking place behind the scenes as the deadline approaches.
“We’re calm, we’ve shown what we’re capable of doing as a team,” he added. “We’ll see what the next few days brings.”
Carrick also played down talk of exits. Joshua Zirkzee is now fit again despite attracting loan interest earlier in the window, and the manager insisted the focus remains on strengthening the group rather than reshaping it.
Michael Carrick praises Bruno Fernandes commitment
Carrick was also asked about Bruno Fernandes and the midfielder’s long-term future at Old Trafford.
The United boss was emphatic in his praise, highlighting Fernandes’ influence since Carrick took charge.
“You could see the passion straightaway, you could see how much he wanted to do well,” Carrick said. “His consistency of performances, his willingness to put himself out there, there is a lot to credit him for.”
Carrick dismissed any suggestion of uncertainty around Fernandes’ focus, insisting the captain is fully committed as United prepare to face Fulham.
“My main agenda is getting through the game with Fulham on Sunday and Bruno is fully committed. No issues at all with that,” he said. “Everything is positive at the moment.”
With the transfer window entering its final days, United aren’t expected to be especially busy. But Carrick’s three-word comment has left the door open for a late move if the right opportunity presents itself.
