Man United transfer news LIVE: Cole Palmer statement, Kobbie Mainoo call, Marcus Rashford latest

Manchester United had a subdued January transfer window, with attention focused on the summer and multiple potential acquisitions under review.

Retaining key squad members will be equally vital, and The Manchester Evening News understands that United are preparing to commence contract negotiations with Kobbie Mainoo, with optimism that an agreement can be reached.

Despite the prospect of securing Mainoo to an extended deal, United look certain to explore the midfield market, particularly given Casemiro's imminent departure. Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton have been heavily linked, whilst Juventus midfielder Manual Locatelli has now surfaced as a possibility, with initial contact established.

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The situation regarding Marcus Rashford, currently on loan at Barcelona, remains unclear, though it appears increasingly likely he wishes to stay in Spain, having made a considerable sacrifice to secure a permanent move.

United will know that qualifying for the Champions League will make it considerably easier to recruit top-tier talent. Michael Carrick's side are currently in a good position to do exactly that with Saturday's 2-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur, seeing the Reds' in fourth after four straight victories.

We'll bring you all of the latest news in live updates below...

Manchester United are set to open contract talks with Kobbie Mainoo and are hopeful of agreeing a deal with the academy graduate before the end of the season. Mainoo has returned to the team under Michael Carrick, starting all four games for the 44-year-old head coach after a spell in the wilderness under Ruben Amorim.

With the 20-year-old shining in