Manchester United must make one obvious and one surprise January transfer decision

In less than a month's time, Manchester United will be firmly in the midst of the January transfer window.

Erik ten Hag may seek to strengthen this winter to turn the fortunes of his team around while a number of players could also depart. Due to Financial Fair Play concerns, it is highly likely Ten Hag will need to sell members of his squad to raise funds for any additions.

United have struggled to maximise selling revenues in recent years and must try to recoup money where possible. Donny van de Beek has been on borrowed time for a while now. Not since his debut campaign in Manchester has the Dutch midfielder made double digit appearances in the Premier League for the Reds. He is an obvious candidate to go in January.

READ MORE: Van de Beek set to leave in January

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The arrival of Ten Hag promised a revival for Van de Beek at Old Trafford but ultimately it didn't materialise. Van de Beek's value has depreciated significantly since his arrival but he will still command a fee as he seeks to reignite his career elsewhere.

Ten Hag could also look to offload Raphael Varane given he has fallen down the pecking order at Old Trafford. The boss wants a new centre-back to join the ranks and the Frenchman is clearly out of favour so a winter departure could be mutually beneficial, particularly as Varane's age and contract status will only see his value drop further.

The Manchester Evening News understands Varane wants to remain at Manchester United beyond the January transfer window - provided he is wanted. He joined from Real Madrid in the summer of 2021 but he's only started one of his side's last 11 games.

Selling him in January could allow the Reds to pick