Manchester United are riding high following impressive victories over Manchester City and Arsenal, with the team appearing rejuvenated under the stewardship of interim boss Michael Carrick. His successful tenure has sparked discussions about him taking on the role permanently, provided the Red Devils maintain their current form and secure a Champions League spot.

Their next challenge is a home match against Fulham this Sunday, a side also vying for European football under the highly-regarded Marco Silva. While the managerial situation at Old Trafford remains fluid, the January transfer window has been relatively quiet. However, behind-the-scenes preparations are in full swing for an anticipated squad overhaul come the summer. Here’s the latest transfer news from Express Sport….

The potential successor to Bruno Fernandes, United’s captain and one of the few consistent performers in recent times, has been named. Rumours suggest that the Portuguese maestro may be growing weary of the constant changes at the club and could seek a move away in the summer.

Murphy believes that a substantial offer could potentially lure him away from Stamford Bridge. Speaking to BestBettingSites, he said: “The way football works, if you’re a player of that quality and you’ve always had a love for a particular club, it’s not a huge stretch to imagine things lining up, especially if United were to go on a run.

“Many Chelsea fans view the club more as a business than a football project, so could I see Cole Palmer leaving for Manchester United? Yes, I could. I wouldn’t want it to happen, but I can envision it. Bruno Fernandes needs a successor.”

United given green light for £70m deal

United are on high alert following news that AC Milan are willing to sell Portuguese star Rafael Leao this summer. Despite Patrick Dorgu’s impressive recent performances in a more attacking role, United are keen to bolster their left wing, reports the Daily Mail.

Leao, 26, previously linked with Arsenal, is seen as a potential option with a price tag of around £70m, which would aid the San Siro side in their planned squad revamp.

Leao has certainly made his mark in Serie A with 78 goals and 65 assists in 278 appearances. His admirers include none other than Milan legend and former United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who has dubbed him “magic” and “one of the best players in the world”.