"Identity" was the buzzword of Ruben Amorim's first interview as Manchester United head coach.

The Portuguese chief, who was appointed from Sporting Lisbon in November, said the aforementioned word six times in his maiden chat as United boss, drilling home the importance of developing a new-look system and style at Old Trafford.

Said system is built around a three-at-the-back formation featuring wing-backs. Amorim installed it from the off, deploying a 3-4-3 formation for his first game in charge against Ipswich Town.

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The system makes the wing-backs the most important components. They are expected to get up and down the flanks, provide width, contribute to attacking phases of play and assist defensively.

Amad was given the nod as the right wing-back for Amorim's first game in charge and Diogo Dalot started on the opposite flank. Amad has been United's best player since Amorim's appointment.

Despite starting the last four Premier League games in the front-three, Amorim, ahead of Monday night's 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United, hinted that Amad could return to the wing-back role.

"I think Amad in that position he could be an option but in this moment with the type of players we have we need a left footer on that position in front," he said. "I try to reinforce the team with the idea and try to use the characteristics of the players."

Based on the evidence that has been on show in recent weeks, most United fans would welcome the possibility of Amad becoming first-choice right wing-back.

But with the January transfer window now open, United fans are longing for an equally capable wing-back on the left. Tyrell Malacia, Noussair Mazraoui and Dalot have all played in that position, but none of them have flourished there, making a left wing-back a top priority this month.

However, as has been well-documented, United have said that there is "no money" to be spent this month. Only by being active in the seller's market will Amorim have a chance of making his first signing.

Marcus Rashford's future is likely to hold the key on that front. He is one of the most sellable assets within the squad and an exit would suit all parties. His wages, however, will be a stumbling block.

Nevertheless, whether it be this month or in the summer, United are going to have to make signing a left-sided wing-back a priority. Wing-backs are key to Amorim's system and for it to work he must have the right tools.

Naturally at this time of year, plenty of players are being linked with United. Some links carry substance while others are fanciful. Paris Saint-Germain's Nuno Mendes and Milos Kerkez of Bournemouth are among those who have been linked with United.

However, United should pay serious attention to Wolves ace Rayan Ait-Nouri. Initially signed on loan by the Black Country outfit from French side Angers in 2020, the 23-year-old has gone from strength to strength in recent years.

Already operating as a left-sided wing-back in a back-three system, he understands the responsibility that comes with playing in an Amorim formation. He has been one of Wolves' best players this season, scoring three goals and registering five assists in 18 Premier League games.

That is very good going for a wing-back who has been playing in a team that has spent much of the season near the foot of the table. The Algeria international, who has been linked with Liverpool in the past, is attack-minded, often eager to get forward as any wing-back should. He also has a good turn of speed, meaning he would help in transitions.

The French-born ace's contract at Molineux is up in June 2026, meaning Wolves may soon have to start thinking about cashing-in on him to get a premium price amid the threat of him not agreeing to fresh terms. This forthcoming summer could represent their last meaningful chance to get the best deal.

United have paid over the odds for countless players in recent years, but Ait-Nouri has proven he can deliver in the Premier League. More importantly, he knows the role United desperately need an upgrade in.

His contract situation could play into United's hands.