Which signings could make Man United title contenders this season?

It is going to be a hard task, though now Manchester United have broken into the top four, after a stuttering start in the Premier League under Louis van Gaal, there is a very slim possibility that they could once again challenge for the title.

They are 12/1 third favourites with Coral to achieve this, and just eight points behind Chelsea, who have shown to have chinks in their armour.

United made it six consecutive Premier League wins, as they swept aside a lacklustre Liverpool outfit 3-0 at Old Trafford. Van Gaal has refused to rule out a title challenge and, while acknowledging things need to improve slightly, is happy with how things are progressing.

“Of course, we have won six matches in a row and that`s fantastic. But we have to improve our playing style still – and I say that nearly every week,” the Dutch coach said.

“We have to improve, but we`re very pleased we know what it is to win against Liverpool. Everybody is happy. My cook is happy, my wife is happy and I am very happy.”

Reports have suggested that the Glazer family are focused on turning the club into a £3bn business, through a combination of mega-star signings and aggressive branding. With United continually linked to new players, plus an acceptance that fresh faces would significantly strengthen the squad, Coral have come up with a number of names who could move in January to aid United’s title bid.

Mats Hummels
Long linked to the club, however, 19-year-old Paddy McNair has performed admirably and, with Marcos Rojo in line to return soon, Van Gaal may have to decide whether now is the time to make a move, or whether he should wait until next summer, when the fee might be slightly lower.

Kevin Strootman
Having returned from injury, and with Roma out of the Champions League, the time might be right for United to move for the midfielder who they have pursued for over a year. The Dutchman was a key component in Van Gaal’s Netherlands side until getting injured, and he could re-establish his partnership with compatriot Daley Blind. Roma will play hard ball over any fee, though, which could be in the region of £40m.