Erik ten Hag hints Man Utd could launch shock transfer bid at the end of January after only securing Weghorst and Butland loans

ERIK TEN HAG has hinted Manchester United could take a late dive in the January transfer market.

The Red Devils boss claimed he would “try” if an opportunity presented itself before Tuesday’s deadline.

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But the 52-year-old claimed the decision to sign players wasn’t just on his shoulders.

After a busy summer of signings, United haven’t spent a penny this month.

Their only January signings so far were loan deals for Wout Weghorst and Jack Butland.

And while further signings look unlikely, Ten Hag reckons a club the size of Manchester United should “strike” if they have a late chance to seal a transfer.

The Red Devils were interested in Cody Gakpo but missed out on the Dutch striker against bitter rivals Liverpool, reportedly to Ten Hag’s frustration.

Asked ahead of today’s FA Cup meeting with Reading if he knew which areas he would like to strengthen in the summer, Ten Hag said: “I have an idea.

“But in the coming days if I had the opportunity in the coming days [to strengthen]then I would do it, but it’s not just me.

“I think that has to be the approach every day at this club. You have to get better, and if there’s an opportunity to get better, you have to take it.

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“That’s my approach and I’m looking, I’m looking around with research and I have an idea with the profiles and what profiles we need to strengthen this squad.”

United have been linked with Inter Milan right-back Denzel Dumfries in recent days.

Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport has reported that Dumfries officials have flown to England for talks with prospects.

Elsewhere, Juventus winger Federico Chiesa is another name reportedly attracting interest from Old Trafford.