As the January transfer window moves onto the horizon, one player who could be the subject of much speculation in the coming weeks, is Manchester United's Phil Jones.

The centre back has not made an appearance for the Old Trafford club since January 2020, something which could see Jones look to move on in an attempt to re-start his career when the market reopens.

Should he look to do that, then despite his lack of game time over the past 22 months, it seems Jones would not be short of interest from elsewhere.

As exclusively revealed by Football League World, Blackburn Rovers are among the clubs tracking Jones, with Derby County another who have been credited with an interest in the defender.

Both of those Championship sides do have a connection with this deal, with Jones having come through the youth ranks at Blackburn to make almost 50 first-team appearances for the club before moving to Old Trafford.

Derby meanwhile, are of course managed by United's record goalscorer Wayne Rooney, which could help the Rams make a case for this deal should they wish to pursue it.

However, it is possible that recent events at Old Trafford could throw a spanner in the works for any club hoping to do a deal here.

With Ole Gunnar Solskjaer having been sacked as United manager, Jones may now have a chance to force his way back into the first-team picture at the club under the Norwegian's replacement.

Indeed, given Jones has reportedly travelled with United for their Champions League clash with Villarreal on Tuesday, despite not being named in their squad for that competition, it seems there may be an intent to integrate him back into the squad.

Should that happen, then Jones may be tempted to remain where he is, and force his way back into the fold at Old Trafford once more.

Another twist could come following reports that Rooney himself would be open to taking over at Old Trafford, something which could either aid Derby's hopes of a deal if he looks to do his old club a favour, or damage them if he looks to give his former teammate a chance to force his way into the United side.

There is also the fact that Jones is contracted to United until the summer of 2023, meaning that some significant funds could be required in order to finance a move for the 29-year-old in January.

As a result, it seems there may still be plenty to be decided, before Jones' future beyond the January window, really becomes much clearer.