Change of plan for United breakthrough star with January move to the Championship looking likely – report

Manchester United have quite a few first-team players looking for the exit door, either temporarily or permanently, this January due to a lack of minutes.

Toby Collyer is one of them, with the 21-year-old having last played a senior game back in September. He was expected to enjoy a breakthrough season at the club, especially when Erik ten Hag at the helm.

The Dutchman was a fan, and handed him his debut during the Community Shield, while he also played in the Premier League and Carabao Cup.

But his fortunes have taken a dramatic nosedive since Ruben Amorim joined the club. The new coach’s arrival coincided with an injury to the defensive midfielder and since his return, he has yet to see a single minute of action.

Collyer has not seen a minute under Amorim

The former Brighton academy ace has been part of five matchday squads under the Portuguese and The Manchester Evening News claims that the youngster is eager to test himself in the Championship should he receive any offers this window.

“Manchester United midfielder Toby Collyer is open to a move to a Championship club this month if a suitable offer emerges.

“Collyer, 21, has only made three appearances for United this season and has not played since the 7-0 thrashing of Barnsley in the League Cup third round on September 17.”

The report, however, does not mention whether it will be a permanent or loan exit but given Collyer only recently signed a contract extension, the club are unlikely to give up so soon.

Open to Championship departure

But there again, Joshua Zirkzee was also signed for big money in the summer while INEOS are currently mulling over selling academy graduates to raise capital in order to steer clear of PSR concerns.

And selling homegrown stars classify as pure profit and Collyer also does fit the bill. However, should the former England U17 international depart, it would leave Amorim dangerously short on numbers in the middle of the park.

Both Casemiro and Christian Eriksen have also been linked with exits and the head coach cannot possibly sanction yet another departure this window. One of the experienced duo might end up staying, especially if Collyer were to leave.

There is also loan interest from Ruud van Nistelrooy’s Leicester City and it will be interesting to see where the academy graduate eventually winds up.

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