Revealed: Man Utd aiming to make four signings in January transfer window with internal doubts raised over Sofyan Amrabat's performances since loan move from Fiorentina

As reported in The Guardian, United believe they need to add strength through the squad's spine as they try and turn a mixed start to the season into a positive end. Ten Hag wishes to add a centre half, defensive midfielder, central midfielder and striker to his ranks. Strengthening in midfield has become a necessity for the Red Devils with neither Casemiro, nor new summer signing Sofyan Amrabat, able to produce consistent, top-level performances. United also wish to add competition and strength up-front to compliment summer addition Rasmus Hojlund - who is yet to find the back of the net in the Premier League.

United have found it difficult to build any consistency this season amid various injury setbacks and off-the-pitch disputes. As a result, they find themselves on the precipice of elimination from the Champions League and six points off Arsenal at the top of the Premier League. United's struggles to offload deadwood in recent seasons has limited their ability to make manoeuvres in the transfer market. They will have to try and overcome that difficulty if they are to undergo this minor rebuild midway through the season. Ten Hag may well be looking to axe as many as 13 members of his squad, including Jadon Sancho, Raphael Varane and Casemiro, in order to push for his main targets.

The Guardian adds that Amrabat's performances have been of particular cause for concern for United officials. The Morocco international has only started four league games since his loan move from Fiorentina, and doubts have been raised internally over his position in the squad.

The January transfer window provides an opportunity for a fresh start for United, with a number of departures likely. Having fallen out with some of his higher-profile players, Ten Hag will be hoping he can bring in players better suited to his management.