United Set for Quiet Deadline Day as Scanlon Heads Out and Mainoo Contract Talks Advance

Manchester United look set for a muted finish to the January transfer window, with activity likely to centre on outgoings rather than ambitious deadline-day swoops.

The Red Devils are in advanced negotiations with Swindon Town over a loan move for teenage winger James Scanlon, who is ready to step up to senior football at 19 years old. The Gibraltar international, capable of operating anywhere in support of the striker but most naturally deployed on the left wing, is targeted by the League Two promotion-chasers as they prepare for the campaign's run-in.

Journalist Chris Winterburn has warned supporters not to anticipate any marquee arrivals before Monday's deadline, suggesting that business will be limited to perhaps a fringe defender moving out on temporary terms. "Don't expect any big business from Manchester United tomorrow," Winterburn wrote on X. "There is a possibility a squad full back is loaned, but the list is slim. Can't rule out a player on the recruitment list for future is brought forward if a good deal, but it'll be quiet."

Interim boss Michael Carrick has left the door fractionally ajar, refusing to completely rule out late market activity should circumstances present themselves. "Never say never, of course because a lot can happen and situations can be thrown up sometimes," Carrick told reporters when quizzed on potential deadline-day movements. "Sometimes it's something that's out of our control that we've got to deal with. We're calm. We've shown what we're capable of doing as a team and we'll just have to see what the next few days bring, but I'm calm about it."

The more significant development concerns Mainoo, with United now ready to finalise fresh terms for the England midfielder following a notable shift in stance. Having previously stalled on contract negotiations, the club appears determined to tie down the 19-year-old before any incoming managerial regime takes hold, particularly given his recent prominence under Carrick's stewardship.

Stefan Borson, a former Manchester City financial adviser, anticipates the deal will reach completion, though he suggests United may need to sweeten their offer. "I think they have made offers, but I don't think they've been able to get it over the line," Borson explained. "He's probably on a relatively low salary compared to some of the other players that they brought in. I'd expect them to agree a contract before a new manager is in. I would think that the Amorim block will go, and they will not take any chances with it, even if it means paying slightly more than they probably would have wanted to."