Manchester United transfer news LIVE - Benfica superstar Joao Neves eyed, ten Hag defends policy

Manchester United are back in action this afternoon as the Premier League returns from its hiatus following the FA Cup third round. The Red Devils saw of Wigan in comfortable fashion last week, but Tottenham Hotspur will provide a much sterner test at Old Trafford on Sunday.

United could have a few familiar faces available, with Luke Shaw, Lisandro Martinez, Casemiro, Christian Eriksen, Antony and Amad all in contention for a place in the squad as Erik ten Hag looks to earn a much-needed three points in front of new minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

There's been plenty of reaction to some of the club's out-on-loan players this week, with Jadon Sancho grabbing an assist on his second debut for Borussia Dortmund last night, while Mason Greenwood opened up on his move to La Liga side Getafe.

But most of the talk has been about transfer news and whether United will strengthen this January. Financial Fair Play concerns may limit the club's spending power this month, but that hasn't stopped a number of named being linked with a transfer.

Manchester United have been linked with a move for Karim Benzema.

The striker joined Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad in the summer after his Real Madrid contract came to an end, scoring 12 in 20 games this season.

However, Marca has reported that Benzema did not return to Al-Ittihad for a training camp and will now be left out of the club's upcoming tour of Dubai.

This has led Fichajes to claim that United are 'willing to take advantage' of the situation and bring in the experienced centre-forward to compete with Rasmus Hojlund.

Erik ten Hag has defended Manchester United's approach to January transfers.

Last season, the Reds brought in Marcel Sabitzer, Wout Weghorst and Jack Butlnd on