Manchester United Transfer Window Insights: Raum, Kroupi, Obi, and Zirkzee

Manchester United’s late-window planning is beginning to harden into some clear storylines: one eye on a new left-back, one on a surprise attacking punt, and another on exits for two highly rated youngsters.

Raum stays on United’s radar

David Raum has not left the Manchester United conversation.

The RB Leipzig defender, into the final year of his contract in Germany, remains on the list of options under consideration by INEOS as they weigh up reinforcements at left-back. United have monitored the 26-year-old for some time, and fresh reports from TeamTALK state that he is still firmly in the thoughts of the club’s transfer decision-makers.

With his deal winding down and his profile matching United’s need for a natural left-sided full-back, Raum’s situation is one to watch as the window ticks towards its conclusion.

McCoist pushes Kroupi as a “smart” United signing

While United’s recruitment team work through their own targets, Ally McCoist has thrown a different name into the mix: Eli Junior Kroupi.

The Bournemouth forward is currently sidelined with a pre-season injury and is expected to be out for a spell, yet McCoist believes that should not deter United. Speaking to talkSPORT Bet, the former Scotland international argued that Kroupi has the quality to step up another level.

“At this stage, it's crazy to say Junior Kroupi could play a level up, right? Because Bournemouth have been terrific, as have teams like Brighton, and they are more than capable of holding their own, as we've seen with Bournemouth winning at Arsenal and winning at Newcastle,” McCoist said, acknowledging why Cherries fans might bristle at the idea of their star being labelled a stepping stone.

“But to go to the next level would be to play for maybe a top four or top five team and play Champions League football.

“In my opinion, he absolutely would not look out of place at a team like Manchester United. I'm more than comfortable with that. He’d be a smart signing.”

United have not moved publicly for Kroupi, but McCoist’s endorsement underlines the kind of emerging talent many believe the club should be targeting.

Feyenoord circle for Obi loan

While outside names are linked with Old Trafford, one of United’s own prospects could be heading out.

Chido Obi, who arrived from Arsenal in 2024, is attracting interest from Feyenoord, according to reports in the Netherlands. The Danish youngster has made only a handful of first-team appearances and has found it difficult to break into Michael Carrick’s senior plans.

A loan move is now being discussed, with Feyenoord said to be keen on taking him for the season. For United, it would be a chance to give Obi regular minutes in a demanding environment; for the player, it could be the step he needs to turn promise into production.

Zirkzee pushes for exit as clubs line up

Joshua Zirkzee’s future looks far less uncertain.

The Dutch forward wants to leave Manchester United before Tuesday’s deadline, with The Daily Mail reporting that he expects a move to be sealed before the window closes. Signed in 2024 amid high expectations, Zirkzee has not kicked on as hoped and is no longer part of Carrick’s plans.

The market around him is active. Aston Villa are reported to be leading the chase in England, while Napoli, Juventus and Roma have all been mentioned as serious options on the continent.

United are now working through the final “bits and pieces” of their window. Raum remains in the frame, Kroupi has a high-profile admirer, Obi could be loaned to a European heavyweight, and Zirkzee is edging towards the exit.

How decisively they act in the coming days will say plenty about the new regime’s ruthlessness – and about what kind of Manchester United they intend to build.