Manchester United have identified two players as the “untouchable” core of the squad, ensuring they remain with the club at all costs.

Several Manchester United players may depart in upcoming transfer windows, but Ruben Amorim is determined to retain two key figures in the squad.

Amorim, 39, has had a mixed start at Old Trafford. While he secured two wins from his first three games, recent results have been less promising, with a 2-0 defeat to Arsenal and a 3-2 loss to Nottingham Forest at home.

This weekend, Amorim will face his first Manchester Derby, as United visit Manchester City at the Etihad on Sunday. The last time Amorim went up against Pep Guardiola’s side, he led Sporting CP to a 4-1 victory over City in Lisbon on November 5.

As he prepares for the derby, Amorim is also likely considering his options for the January transfer window. Reports from The Telegraph earlier this week suggested United might be open to selling Marcus Rashford due to concerns about his lifestyle. According to The Mail, a bid of around £40 million could be enough to tempt United to part with the academy graduate, whose sale would represent “pure profit” under PSR regulations.

However, selling their “crown jewels” such as Kobbie Mainoo or Alejandro Garnacho is reportedly a step the club would prefer to avoid. Additionally, £52 million summer signing Leny Yoro is viewed as untouchable.

That said, United are open to offers for most of the squad at the right price. Players like Christian Eriksen, Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, Jonny Evans, and Tom Heaton could leave as their contracts near expiration, though Maguire may see his deal extended by another 1

2 months.