Wilcox Pushes Howe to Top of Old Trafford Shortlist
Manchester United technical director Jason Wilcox has listed former Newcastle boss Eddie Howe as his preferred target to replace Michael Carrick if the club makes a managerial change. Old Trafford directors are weighing several candidates, with Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann also keen on taking the position. Strategic moves are simultaneously taking shape across London, where Arsenal are preparing formal steps to sign Atletico Madrid winger Alex Baena and Monza forward Gustavo Varela ahead of the January transfer window.
Napoli and Benfica are actively competing with Arsenal for Monza forward Gustavo Varela. Both clubs are tracking the 21-year-old Portuguese attacker closely before the window reopens.
Álex Baena
playerBaena and Varela Fit Arsenal’s Dynamic Attack
Alex Baena offers proven versatility on the left wing and through central attacking channels, bringing sharp creative passing to high-pressing systems. Gustavo Varela operates primarily as an energetic center-forward who pushes defensive lines back with direct running in transition. Both players suit fluid attacking structures that rely on quick ball movement and high pressing high up the pitch.
Arsenal Target Varela for Forward Line Rotation
The addition of Varela would give Mikel Arteta an explicit physical option up front during congested fixtures. Competing alongside current options in the attacking line, the young forward provides raw aerial presence and direct box entries off the bench. Baena would immediately compete for starting minutes on the wing, offering fresh tactical balance during mid-week fixture rotations.
Arsenal
clubMid-Season Recruitment Adjustments Across Major European Clubs
Arsenal are structuring their recruitment strategy around potential mid-season departures to clear space on their payroll before making official opening bids in January. Manchester United face their own potential financial commitments, as replacing Carrick with an elite top-flight manager or negotiating contract releases will require significant executive budget reallocation before mid-season trading starts.
Talksport, Telegraph, La Repubblica, FootballTransfers.