Ruben Amorim may have pulled off Manchester United transfer masterstroke with double deal

It’s fair to say that Ruben Amorim has not had the impact he would have hoped for at Manchester United since his arrival at the club back in November.

The team currently sit in 14th place in the Premier League table, and Sunday’s penalty shootout defeat against Fulham ended their defence of the FA Cup at the fifth round stage. Speaking to BBC Sport after the match, Amorim outlined his ambition at the club.

"The goal is to win the Premier League. I know that we are losing games, but the goal is to win the Premier League again," he said.

"I don't know how long it will take. We have a goal, and we continue forward no matter what. It's impossible to know, but you start understanding the players are better and we understand the league. We'll see in the future."

To reach that goal, the United boss is likely to need serious investment over the next few transfer windows. He may, however, be hampered by the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSRs), meaning that exits are likely to be needed before big fees are spent on incomings. Two transfer decisions made in the window may now help United in that regard.

The winter window saw United loan out two forwards in Marcus Rashford and Antony. The former joined Aston Villa, while the latter moved on a temporary deal to Spanish side Real Betis.

Both players have so far impressed with their performances for their respective loan sides. While Rashford is yet to get on the scoresheet for Villa, he has provided three assists in his last three games for the club, turning provider for Marco Asensio.

Antony, meanwhile, has scored three times and provided two assists in his seven appearances for Real Betis. He played 90 minutes of the weekend’s 2-1 La Liga win over Real