According to the Chronicle, Rafa has sanctioned a January exit for forgotten full-back Achraf Lazaar, with him also set to loan out Cal Roberts after his impressive form for the U-23’s.
Obviously Lazaar has been due an exit for the last few windows after never settling since his arrival from Palermo in the summer of 2016.
A miserable loan back the Serie A last year hasn’t helped his chances of finding a new club but this January is likely to see an overdue permanent departure for the Moroccan international. Genoa are reportedly set to renew their long held interest him and a move would suit all parties, even if United are likely to have to settle for no fee but only the chance to get his wages off the books.
As for Roberts, he’s one of many impressive youngsters who probably need to make the step up from U-23 level to senior level if they are to continue to progress. He has a boat load of goals and assists already in the Premier League 2 this season, with our reserves in impressive form after a recent 4-1 win away at Man Utd.
Roberts could also be followed by the likes of Woodman, Longstaff and Sorensen, with all three all likely to benefit from regular football at senior level.
A loan move especially for Woodman would be a smart one, who badly needs first team football now. He has went from playing for England’s U-21’s one minute then go back to play with our reserves – it’s still odd why a loan wasn’t sanctioned in the summer when both Elliott and Darlow were retained.
Who else do you think may leave this winter?
