Jose Mourinho is reportedly keen to get some players off Manchester United's wage bill in January, and the club's first departure has now been confirmed.
Read: Mourinho's Next Five Big-Money Targets Revealed?
Players such as Morgan Schneiderlin, Memphis Depay and Bastian Schweinsteiger have all been linked with moves away from Old Trafford after experiencing limited game time under the Portuguese tactician.
However, it was third choice goalkeeper Sam Johnstone who became the first player to leave the club in this transfer window, joining Aston Villa on loan.
.@SamJohnstone50 joins Aston Villa on loan until the end of the season and @ElgatoPereira1 returns to #MUFC after a spell with Belenenses. pic.twitter.com/Ox4MITBw9P
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) January 5, 2017
"I'm really pleased to have joined Aston Villa – it's a massive club," the 23-year-old told Villa's official website.
"It's an opportunity I jumped at, it's one you simply can't turn down.
"I'm delighted to be here and I can't wait to work with Steve Bruce. I've heard very good things about the manager."
Read: The 10 Most Expensive January Transfers In History
United also confirmed that they have recalled Joel Castro Pereira from his loan spell at Belenenses in Portugal.
The 20-year-old impressed during his 10 appearances in Portugal, keeping four clean sheets.
Which other players do you think will leave United in January? Have your say in the comments section below.
