Manchester United Transfer Prospects: January Targets for Sir Alex Ferguson

Despite boasting not a single defeat in the opening fifteen exchanges, with eight wins and seven draws, Manchester United's start to the 2010/2011 season has been far from impressive. Currently third in the Premier League table behind Arsenal and a rampant Chelsea (bar the Sunderland encounter), Sir Alex Ferguson's men have shown glimpses of dominance, predominantly at home, but have too often been forced to salavage draws or wins in the final stages of matches.

Although it shows tremendous fight and spirit, especially in England starlet Wayne Rooney's absence, the Red Devils will need to reinforce their dominance if they are to regain the English Premier League crown. The January transfer window is quietly approaching and one can expect Sir Alex Ferguson to be an active participant should United continue to dwell outside the top two rankings on the EPL ladder.

Although the United roster is more than capable of conjuring up the necessary requirements to overcome rivals Arsenal and Chelsea for the title, this article will analyze three potential January signings Sir Alex Ferguson can target.

1. Luka Modric, Tottenham

The Croatian starlet has been more than impressive since his £16.5 million transfer from Dinamo Zagreb to London giants Tottenham Hotpsurs in 2008. The elegant midfielder has shown he is more than capable of handling the physicality of the English game, as well as an eye for the goal.

Blessed with expert vision, passing and speed, the 25 year old is able to fulfill every midfield role and can also be utilized as a winger and second striker.  United were rumoured to have confirmed interest in the Croatian dynamo for some time now, and come January, that interest may materialize.

Undoubtedly, the fee for Harry Redknapp's midfield maestro will be high, but nothing United cannot manage.

2. Luis Suarez, Ajax

Suarez has been heavily linked with a number of big name clubs following a number of hugely impressive seasons in the Dutch Eredivisie. The Uruguayan sensation was named Dutch Footballer of the year in early 2010 and is currently Ajax's captain and has notched over 100 goals in 154 appearances for the Dutch giants, 49 of which came last season.

Manchester United loom as the front runners for the prized signing, with the 23 year old likely to move onto a stronger League to increase his worth. Suarez would provide a great partner for Wayne Rooney, alongside providing a quality option to cover the wing and second striker roles. Ajax are rumoured to want at least £25-30 million for their captain.

3. Giorgio Chiellini, Juventus

The Italian defender has been an immense presence in the Juventus back line for a number of seasons, now prompting heavy interest from a number European giants. The 26 year old is a strong, imposing defender who boasts great strength as well as brilliant control.

Chiellini is highly regarded throughout the Serie A, but seems destined for a move to the Premier League or La Liga. At times this season, the Manchester United defence has struggled, with injuries and lack of consistency the main culprits.

Signing the former Fiorentina centre half would ensure that added depth, quality and power are instilled into the heart of United's defence. Giorgio Chiellini is likely to cost around £15-25 million.