Welcome to the United On My Mind daily round-up, where we take a look at some of the best Manchester United stories that you might have missed.
Mason Greenwood's slashed chances of winning a prestigious award reminds fans of a harsh reality that Cristiano Ronaldo's fairytale return has brought.
Meanwhile, United hang on for dear life in the three-way tug-of-war for Antonio Rudiger as Ralf Rangick sets his eyes on a Paris Saint-Germain talent.
Greenwood odds lengthen for PFA gong
Greenwood has fallen from the heights of being an early favourite for the PFA Young Player of the Year award to an outsider, according to BetVictor.
The 20-year-old forward led the charts in the early stages of the season at odds of 5/1 but, following his and United's dip in form, the England international has become very much an outsider at 20/1.
Phil Foden (4/5), Bukayo Saka (3/1), Reece James (5/1), Conor Gallagher (5/1) and Emile Smith Rowe (8/1) have all leapfrogged the Carrington academy graduate.
Our view: Foden and Saka would currently be worthy winners of the award, with both unfortunately way ahead of Mason right now.
Hindsight is a great thing but it is difficult to overlook the fact that Ronaldo's arrival has coincided with the youngster's drop-off.
Had Greenwood remained an attacking focal point for United then he would still be the running. It felt like we were witnessing something special during the early weeks of the season.
United still face competition for Rudiger
United have been handed a major boost in their apparent pursuit of Chelsea defender Rudiger after Real Madrid pulled the plug on negotiations, according to Spanish outlet Marca.
Rangnick's side, Bayern Munich and PSG are still in the race for the 28-year-old centre-half, according to Spanish outlet Fichajes .
The report claims that the Reds are keen to bolster their options at centre-back in a bid to fix their "enormous defensive problems once and for all". Rudiger is out of contract at Stamford Bridge at the end of this season.
Our view: I can't see United wrapping up a deal for Rudiger. Since Real Madrid reportedly pulled out of a deal for the German, the power has shifted back into Chelsea's favour and their designs on renewing the Germany international's deal.
Saying that, Rudiger would be incredible alongside Raphael Varane - and maybe even Phil Jones too in a back-three if Rangnick feels naughty.
United plan emergency holiday to Paris
United are keeping an eye on PSG's Mauro Icardi ahead of a potential move this month, according to L'Equipe.
The report claims that the Reds could spring into action should Edinson Cavani and Anthony Martial seek exits.
The French outlet added that there has been no contact between either side yet, but United do have a contingency plan in place to try and sign the 28-year-old should the dominoes fall before him.
Our view: I don't necessarily think that Icardi is the answer to United's problems. Yes, signing a striker is always nice but is it really what Rangnick needs? I'm not convinced by the principle or even player in question.
The off-field history that the Argentine has and the baggage he could bring to Old Trafford would simply be counter-productive, especially in United's current climate.
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