5 free agents Manchester United could sign in January

Aaron Ramsey (Arsenal)

One of the most high profile names on the list of players who could soon become free agents, Arsenal have more or less confirmed that the Welsh midfielder will not continue with them beyond this season.

Ramsey is now into his 11th season as a Gunner, and his departure from the Emirates will be an emotional one to say the least.

Several European heavyweights are eager to exploit his contract situation, with Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea all being likely destinations, although the sudden emergence of Bayern could complicate things.

Ramsey is probably one of the most complete midfielders in the Premier League. He can play anywhere from defensive midfield to attacking midfield, although he plays best when deployed in a box-to-box role.

He is technically superb, very creative, and is excellent on the ball. He also doesn’t shy away from doing the dirty work – he made the most number of tackles (57) in the 2013/14 season.

The 27 year old’s highly combative style of play will be appealing for Mourinho. United currently have a sufficient number of midfield options, but Ramsey would provide some much needed depth, and would probably get into the starting XI based on current form.

It’s also time for the Red Devils to start thinking of Herrera’s replacement, and Ramsey is in many ways similar to the Spaniard.

It certainly won’t be easy to lure him to Old Trafford. They aren’t likely to face much competition from Chelsea, given the Blues’ own list of midfield options, but Liverpool desperately need a replacement for the ageing James Milner, and Bayern always love a good bargain.