Manchester United are expected to strengthen their attacking options during the January transfer window, but transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano has also raised doubts about Luke Shaw’s long-term future at Old Trafford. According to a report by TeamTalk on Friday, November 6, 2026, the experienced left-back could be approaching the end of his 13-year spell with the Premier League club.

United are reportedly prioritising the recruitment of a new centre-forward after recognising that failing to reinforce their attacking department and left-back position during the summer transfer window may have left the squad short in important areas. The club are now considering January additions as they look to improve their options for the second half of the campaign.

Romano expects Manchester United to pursue a striker when the winter transfer market opens, although he has not identified a specific player as the leading target. Ivan Toney, Jean-Philippe Mateta and Dominic Calvert-Lewin have all been mentioned as possible candidates, with the club reportedly favouring an experienced forward familiar with the demands of English football.

Such a signing would provide United with another attacking option and could offer an immediate improvement to their frontline. The preference for a player with Premier League experience suggests the club want someone capable of adapting quickly rather than relying entirely on a longer-term development project.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano said: “I expect Man United to do something in terms of new strikers.” He also indicated that the club could be active in the transfer market once January arrives, suggesting that the recruitment plans may extend beyond a single position.

While attacking reinforcements are expected to be a priority, Shaw’s situation has created another important question for United's transfer strategy. The 31-year-old's current contract is due to expire next summer, and reports indicate that the club are not planning to offer him an extension.

Romano claims United have started considering the possibility of ending their association with the England international when his agreement expires in the summer of 2027. If that happens, Shaw would bring his lengthy spell at Old Trafford to an end after 13 years.

The journalist suggested that the defender is expected to leave at the conclusion of the 2026-27 season and expressed concern about the prospect of his departure. Shaw has been part of the club for more than a decade, making his potential exit a significant development as United consider changes to their squad.

The uncertainty surrounding the left-back also highlights the possibility of further recruitment in that position. United did not strengthen the role during the previous summer window, and Shaw's reported contract situation could make finding a replacement increasingly important.

Beyond the playing squad, Manchester United may also face changes within their coaching and recruitment structures. Manager Michael Carrick's position has reportedly come under scrutiny, while the club's directors are also said to be facing questions about their responsibilities.

These developments suggest that the club could be approaching a broader restructuring rather than limiting their plans to transfer activity. Romano's comments point towards a period in which several departments may be affected as United attempt to reshape their sporting direction.

With January approaching and Shaw's contract situation unresolved, the coming months could prove important for the club. United will need to address their attacking requirements while considering their defensive options and wider organisational plans. The decisions made during this period may influence the direction of their rebuild heading into 2027.