Four players that Erik ten Hag could sign for Man Utd to be the next Odion Ighalo

Manchester United have often dipped into the January market to strike a bargain loan deal. The Red Devils had no fewer than three stars on temporary deals in the second half of last season, with Wout Weghorst, Marcel Sabitzer and Jack Butland arriving at Old Trafford in the winter. United have also signed cult strikers Odion Ighalo and Henrik Larsson on loan in previous windows.

Express Sport looks at who could arrive in a similar agreement in January.

Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg

Tottenham midfielder Hojbjerg was linked with a move to United towards the end of the summer window. However, one did not materialise and he ultimately remained in north London.

Hojbjerg has gone on to play 16 times in the Premier League, although only three of those have been starts. With United desperately needing midfield reinforcements, the Dane could be a loan option for Erik ten Hag.

There is one obstacle currently preventing a loan move for Hojbjerg. Premier League clubs can only loan a maximum of one player from another top-flight rival, meaning Sergio Reguilon’s temporary spell at the club, in which there is a January break clause, would need to be terminated.

Jean-Clair Todibo

Ten Hag desperately needs a new centre-back with injuries and a loss of form hindering his current options. Former Barcelona defender Todibo would be an excellent addition to the United back line.

The 23-year-old might prove too expensive to sign permanently in January, but a loan with an obligation to buy could make sense. Premier League clubs voted against a ban on loans between associated parties, so even if Jim Ratcliffe does complete his partial takeover, INEOS-owned Nice can lend the player to United.

Memphis Depay

Depay’s career could go full circle if he ends up at United in January. Then a scrawny winger, the Dutchman struggled at Old Trafford after arriving in 2016 and departed under Jose Mourinho in 2018 having failed to reach his potential.

Now 29, Depay would be an excellent addition to United’s attacking options and would ease the burden from the young shoulders of Rasmus Hojlund. The former Barcelona star has started only two La Liga matches for Atletico Madrid this season. Fellow Atletico striker Alvaro Morata could also be a good option for Ten Hag.