Managing Man Utd as Cole Palmer completes blockbuster move and Casemiro replacement found

Manchester United have been rejuvenated following the appointment of Michael Carrick as interim manager until the summer. The former Red Devils midfielder has won every game so far and will be looking to maintain that form indefinitely as United go in search of a top-four finish in the Premier League. They're currently on course to achieve that goal but much will depend on how they fare in the second half of the campaign.

A couple of signings on deadline day would give United the best chance of securing Champions League qualification at the end of the season. They have been linked with a host of big-name players but are yet to complete any January deals thus far. However, there is still time for that to change before the window slams shut.

Express Sport looks at how United could set themselves up for a successful finish in the Premier League...

Palmer completes blockbuster move

It's highly unlikely that Chelsea would agree to sell Cole Palmer on deadline day, but stranger things have happened in football.

United have been linked with a move for the England international over the last few weeks, with reports suggesting that he's homesick in west London.

Palmer supported the Red Devils as a boy and would reportedly be open to joining them should the opportunity arise. He would be the perfect long-term replacement for Bruno Fernandes, who has been tipped to leave Old Trafford at the end of the season.

It would take a mind-blowing transfer fee and a masterclass in negotiating to get a deal done, but Palmer would be worth every penny.

Casemiro replacement found

United could give themselves a head start for next season by replacing Casemiro now rather than waiting until he leaves in the summer.

Ruben Neves is a player the Red Devils might decide to test the waters for, given that he only has six months remaining on his contract with Al-Hilal.

He boasts a huge amount of Premier League experience and would bring proven quality to United's midfield ranks. Signing him now would also give him plenty of time to settle in at Old Trafford before the start of next season.

If a cut-price deal can be arranged given his contract situation, it would be silly for United to pass up that opportunity ahead of the deadline.