Mourinho: Manchester United won’t chase “impossible” transfer targets

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has claimed that the club won't chase "impossible deals" in the January transfer window.

United didn't make any acquisitions in January but have already been linked with a host of players ahead of next season, including Atletico Madrid attacker Antoine Griezmann.

However, Mourinho stated that he will only pursue "realistic" targets.

As reported by Manchester Evening News, Mourinho said: "I think to speak about the transfer window in February makes no sense at all.

"The transfer window opens in the summer and until the summer I have nothing to tell you.

"I know what I want. I work with my players for seven months or so and I know them better now than six months ago.

"I think we need to be realistic. I know what are impossible targets.

"I don't like my clubs to participate in impossible deals. They are a waste of time. It is a gift to players and agents having Manchester United interested because it helps them to improve their own situation.

"I am very realistic, very objective. My board know ours needs. From now until the summer I focus on my players, our club, our fans to get best possible results."

United were heavily active in the transfer market last summer, with Paul Pogba, Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Eric Bailly and Zlatan Ibrahimovic all joining the club.

Despite those acquisitions, however, Mourinho's side have struggled for consistency this season and are in sixth place in the Premier League table, 14 points adrift of leaders Chelsea.

Even if they miss out on a top four finish, United's worldwide status is such that they would still surely be able to attract high quality players.

The process of luring top talents to Old Trafford would, though, be made considerably easier should United be competing in the Champions League next season.