Manchester United fans were screaming out for some defensive investments in the summer of 2026 after the club prioritised all their spending towards the midfield, bringing in Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans and Carlos Baleba for a combined cost of just under £150m.

The lack of defensive recruits has already come back to bite them, with injuries already plaguing the squad, forcing Luke Shaw, Lisandro Martinez and Noussair Mazraoui to suffer spells on the sidelines.

Michael Carrick has resorted to the likes of Diogo Dalot and Ayden Heaven to slot in at left back, leaving United vulnerable at the back.

Immediate investments are needed in January, with Manchester United currently sitting in 13th ahead of match week eight, winning only one game so far this season. 

However, United have reportedly received a 'yes' from their top fullback target in January, with an arrival at the top of the priority list.

With Luke Shaw's injury problems continuing, Manchester United turned their attention towards RB Leipzig's David Raum as their next potential recruit.

According to Teamtalk, the 28-year-old is happy to make the move, with January marking the final six months of his contract in Germany.

His contract situation also falls in United's favour, with the fee expected to be low and easier for United to facilitate.

Raum's introduction would be an immediate fix to Manchester United's problems, with the German international's vast experience bringing instant quality to the side rather than an investment for potential growth.

Furthermore, Raum's availability is far more commendable, playing over 30 games per season in five of his last six seasons and already making ten appearances for Leipzig this season.

Pressure is still growing on Michael Carrick's shoulders, with the 45-year-old manager winless in his last seven games. He will look to end this sour streak as United host Bournemouth on Sunday.

Speculation over Carrick's future has grown after United made the bold decision to keep him at the wheel following last season's successes. However, this dismal start to the season has already caused doubts among the fanbase about his suitability as manager.

United need a huge performance against the Cherries to reignite some hope for the future and turn things around this season.

For now, United have to improvise with Diogo Dalot, Ayden Heaven and Noussair Mazraoui filling in at left back.