Manchester United have one of the biggest squads in the Premier League and with the January transfer window approaching, Louis van Gaal will undoubtedly be considering what to do with some of his fringe players.

Several clubs in the Championship will be hoping to take advantage of this and one those sides keeping an eye on Old Trafford will be Middlesbrough head coach Aitor Karanka.

Boro are trying again to return to the Premier League after a six year absence and many consider them the favourites this season following their play-off disappointment last time out.

They've started the season as expected and they are currently second in the Sky Bet Championship, with only unbeaten Brighton collecting more points than them this season.

However, Karanka has not ruled out making more signings in January as he looks to guarantee a place in next years Premier League season and an inspiring signing could go a long way to help that.

Here are THREE Manchester United players that Middlesbrough should try to sign in January......

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PRESS THE IMAGE BELOW TO SEE THE THREE PLAYERS!

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Andreas Pereira

The 19-year-old attacking midfielder is one of the most exciting prospects at Old Trafford and Louis van Gaal will be considering loaning out the Belgian-born midfielder.

The Brazil under-20 international scored in the Capital One Cup this season but he has struggled to get into the first team it comes to the Premier League.

Pereira could be set for a loan move in January and Middlesbrough could be a good option for him due to their league position, and the intensity that Aitor Karanka demands from his players.

Sam Johnstone

Boro have a perfectly good goalkeeper in the form of Dimi Konstantopolous, but at 37 years of age they will have to prepare for life without the Greek 'keeper.

Tomas Mejias has shown signs that he could play a crucial part for the Teessiders after his rocky start to life at the club, but Johnstone could come in and establish himself as the number 1 for years to come.

The 22-year-old is highly rated at Old Trafford but with David De Gea and Sergio Romero in front of him, he doesn't look like getting into the starting XI any time soon.

Nick Powell

The 21-year-old had a bright future when he emerged as one of hottest properties in the English game, when he fired Crewe into League One.

However, his move to Old Trafford just hasn't worked out and loan spells with Wigan and Leicester have also failed to reignite his stagnating career.

Capable of playing upfront or behind the striker, Powell could excel at Middlesbrough under the guidance of Aitor Karanka and a move to the Riverside could help him get his career back on track.

Middlesbrough fans...Do you agree? Would you like to see these players join the club in January? Let us know what you think in the comments section below!