Amorim confirms no discussions on January additions for Manchester United

On Friday, Ruben Amorim stated that there are no discussions regarding possible additions to Manchester United during the January transfer period, while he manages a squad that is short on numbers.

The Red Devils sit sixth in the Premier League table at the halfway mark, merely three points behind Liverpool, who occupy the final automatic spot for Champions League qualification.

However, United, set to play Leeds on Sunday, have missed several chances in the past few weeks to break into the top four, including surrendering points in a frustrating 1-1 stalemate against last-placed Wolves on Tuesday.

During his pre-match news conference on Friday, Amorim indicated that significant new signings this month seem improbable, despite dealing with numerous absences due to injuries and international commitments.

The Portuguese coachs approach has shifted just two weeks after he mentioned they would assess any potential activity.

"The transfer window will not alter things," Amorim remarked. "At present, we are not holding any talks about squad changes.

"There is a strategy in place, a plan that we intend to stick with.

"We are close to the Champions League positions, yet also not far from the eight sides trailing us, so let us concentrate on the upcoming fixture. That is all. Our priority is securing victory in the next match."

Reports suggested Uniteds interest in Bournemouth attacker Antoine Semenyo, who it is believed is heading to Manchester City, and there are links to January departures for players like Joshua Zirkzee and Kobbie Mainoo.

When questioned about any squad members approaching him with requests to depart, Amorim replied: "No, not a single one. I do not anticipate any coming to me with such queries."

United appear likely to miss eight players for Sundays clash with Leeds at Elland Road, as injuries add to the unavailability of the Africa Cup of Nations contingent including Amad Diallo, Bryan Mbeumo, and Noussair Mazraoui.

Skipper Bruno Fernandes is out alongside Mason Mount and Mainoo, while centre-backs Matthijs de Ligt and Harry Maguire have sat out recent outings.

Leeds, on a six-match unbeaten run, aim for their first home triumph over their bitter rivals since September 2002, and Amorim noted that his team must gear up for a challenging crowd.

"Naturally, I will select a side prepared to deal with it, then attempt to assess the match and decide how best to support them in securing the win," he added.

"They must (manage the atmosphere). It is a fixture in a tough setting, but they have to be prepared, and they need to go through it.

"Yet it will prove difficult for anyone, even those with extensive experience."