Premier League: Do Top 7 Teams Need To Strengthen In January?

2. Manchester United

Manchester United's continuing weakness is the centre of their midfield. No matter what their fans say, Tom Cleverley is not up to par for the club and is most definitely not the same calibre as the likes of Paul Scholes. The retired midfielder had fans in the form of Xavi and Iniesta for his passing range, and it's hard to imagine his replacement attracting similar plaudits. Someone of that ilk would not go amiss as United need a play maker to dictate the midfield as Kagawa continues to be unfavoured by Moyes. It may be the case that Moyes wants someone who won't shirk defensive duties whilst being creative and they have been linked with Ilkay Gundogan already, who would fit that mould. Then there's Koke who is apparently another name on the cards, but the likelihood of him leaving a burgeoning Atletico Madrid side with ambitions for the title is slim. Another area of concern for the Red Devils is the wings. Antonio Valencia is not the same player that used to beat his man and whip in dangerous crosses time and time again. Nani and Ashley Young are both past their expiration dates and will not improve enough to warrant not investing in a new winger. Rumours of Marco Reus being available have been constant and with Dortmund not being at their best (although still doing considerably better than United) this might be the time to test their resolve. Antonio Griezmann may be a better option as Reus continues to distance himself with a move and the fact Champions League football next season will remain in the balance for Real Sociedad as the season progresses with Athletic Bilbao going strong.