Manchester United plan to strengthen their defence in the January transfer window, head coach Michael Carrick has confirmed. The club will target new signings at left-back and centre-back as part of a planned squad rebuild following a summer focused on other areas.

Carrick stated the club will assess opportunities when the market reopens. "When the next transfer window comes, you want to plan and you want to make the best of it," he said. "Whatever that looks like at this stage, we don't quite know. But without doubt, there's opportunity because the transfer window is open."

Defensive focus identified

The need for reinforcements is clear. United have conceded nine goals in their opening six Premier League games, leaving them 13th in the league table with just six points. Injuries have forced players like Ayden Heaven to deputise out of position at left-back. The club's intention is to improve defensive options over the next two transfer windows, with centre-back also a key area for investment.

Martinez situation resolved

This planning comes after a public airing of frustrations from within the squad. Defender Lisandro Martinez had criticised the club's hierarchy for a perceived lack of investment during the summer window. The matter has since been resolved internally after Martinez apologised for the timing and public nature of his comments, though not the opinions themselves.

Carrick held a clear-the-air meeting with the player and other club figures last Thursday. "We understood the situation. Licha understood he made a mistake," Carrick explained. "We have a really good feeling from the club. We can see in the group we want to do something with this situation." He insisted the squad's spirit is strong ahead of the next fixture, a trip to face Leeds United at Elland Road on Sunday.

The manager was adamant that external noise has not affected the group. "The squad have trained really well and they are in good spirits," Carrick said. "I've got frustrations about not getting the right results." United's recent form shows no wins in their last five matches across all competitions, including a 2-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid in their most recent outing. They face a Leeds side sitting seventh, having drawn 1-1 with them at Old Trafford in August.

With the January window now a firm focus, the club aims to emerge stronger from a challenging start to the campaign. Carrick's confirmation ends speculation and sets a clear direction for the recruitment team as they prepare for the mid-season market.

The report in full is at skysports.com