The problems continue to mount for new Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag ahead of the January transfer window.
It was supposed to be a relatively quiet period with the main focus on bringing in a backup to lessen the burden on Diogo Dalot.
But after the acrimonious departure of Cristiano Ronaldo, the focus has shifted firmly towards the addition of a goalscoring striker.
Elanga has not enjoyed the same success under Ten Hag
One player whose playing time has been reduced considerably following the arrival of the Dutchman is Anthony Elanga.
Once a regular under interim boss Ralf Rangnick, Elanga is mostly on the bench under Ten Hag.
The former Ajax coach has been fair in his reflections having played him both on the right and on his preferred left flank. And the Swede has barely impressed on the part of both.
Put Facundo Pellistri ON and loan out Anthony Elanga. Good backup for Antony Matheus Dos Santos. He is too fast and sharp with the ball! pic.twitter.com/THPFoEALEQ
— Chepkendiot MK (@ChepkendiotMK) November 29, 2022
Even during the recently concluded Spain friendlies, the Sweden international was one of the worst performers and many have rightly suggested that Elanga needs a loan.
The 20-year-old was heavily linked with a loan move to Everton in the summer, but that never materialized after Ten Hag’s lack of right wingers.
Elanga needs more minutes
But now with Antony there and World Cup displays from Facundo Pellistri, the Dutchman could be tempted to look to alternative options as the reserve right winger.
According to the Daily Mail, the United academy graduate “is also in demand.” And that could indicate the Blues’ interest in the winger once again.
Should United end up signing Ten Hag’s preferred target in Cody Gakpo, that could push Elanga further down the attacking pecking order.
In terms of racking up minutes, a loan makes the most sense for Elanga’s burgeoning career. It remains to be seen if the Dutch boss allows this to happen in January.
