Manchester United are reportedly refusing to let Kobbie Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee leave due to the potential impact of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) on their squad. Meanwhile, Jadon Sancho is expected to complete his loan spell at Aston Villa, with no break clause included in the deal from Old Trafford.
Ruben Amorim is enjoying his best spell since taking charge, with three consecutive league victories. Wins against Sunderland, arch-rivals Liverpool and Brighton & Hove Albion have put United just a point shy of the Champions League spots as November begins, with an opportunity to strengthen their European credentials against struggling Nottingham Forest this weekend.
The summer signings of Matheus Cunha, Benjamin Sesko and Bryan Mbeumo have significantly improved United's attacking prowess compared to last season. The Cameroonian international has scored three goals in two matches, Sesko found the net twice before the international break, and Cunha opened his account during the 4-2 victory over Brighton.
However, United have been dealing with ongoing speculation about the futures of fringe players Zirkzee and Mainoo. Both have been linked with moves away from Old Trafford, with clubs such as West Ham United, Sevilla and Napoli reportedly interested.
However, due to their players' participation in the upcoming AFCON, United bosses face some crucial decisions. One of these, as reported by the Daily Mail, is that Sancho won't be making a return to the club owing to the absence of a break clause in their agreement with Villa.
Such a clause would have permitted United to recall him when the opportunity arose, much like with Sergio Reguillon when he departed the club mid-season on loan. However, other reports suggest that United will prevent exits for Zirkzee and Mainoo due to the squad's involvement in the tournament, which takes place from late December to early January in Morocco.
Mbeumo is expected to join his Cameroon teammates, while Amad could receive a call-up for Ivory Coast. Consequently, it's been suggested that the January departures have been halted to avoid leaving the team short-staffed during a busy period.
Amorim is set to face a selection dilemma during this time, with both players likely to miss consecutive home games against Newcastle and Wolves on 27th and 30th December respectively. Also included in their fixture list are matches against Bournemouth, Aston Villa, Leeds United, Burnley and Manchester City, along with the FA Cup third round at the start of the new year.
Sancho, on the other hand, has had a challenging start to his loan spell at Villa Park. This weekend, he was brought on as a substitute in the first half, only to be taken off towards the end of their 1-0 victory over Manchester City.
The 25 year old has struggled to make an impact at Unai Emery's side, managing only five appearances in all competitions, including just two Premier League games. It's now been suggested that he'll be staying put in the Midlands as there was no recall clause included in their loan agreement.