It feels like Manchester United are a few high quality signings away from being where they need to. Jose Mourinho says so himself, putting the players he already has down while praising Juventus' board for their transfer business - United's rivals spend big to stay on top, United are falling behind.

Mourinho teams are supposed to be compact, tough to break down and competitive - in the derby, City teased and pulled on a thread which unravelled a gulf in class.

Mourinho says Man Utd need a top level centre-back. Maybe two. And a midfielder or three. But is that really the case?

United have the highest wage bill in the Premier League and a negative goal difference. So what do they actually need to sort out, and how could they do it in the January transfer window?

Centre-backs

Ideal examples

Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid), Raphael Varane (Real Madrid), Giorgio Chiellini (Juventus), Diego Godin (Atletico Madrid), Virgil Van Dijk (Liverpool), Toby Alderweireld (Spurs).

United need a commanding centre-back who is ready-made for Premier League action. Mourinho doesn't like to play kids and wants someone who is a leader, a player who can captain the side and one who is able to carry the weight of expectation that Mourinho places on their shoulders. He needs to be aggressive, strong and to have proved himself at an elite level. And it would really help if he was cheap.