Manchester United were expected to make signing a midfielder their next priority after luring Alexis Sanchez to Old Trafford from Arsenal.

Nice midfielder Jean Seri and Shakhtar Donetsk’s Fred have both emerged as targets, despite the players being eyed by Chelsea and Manchester City respectively.

However, the Manchester Evening News say Fellaini and Carrick’s return from injury has stopped the Red Devils from pursuing deals for the duo.

Speaking yesterday, Mourinho insisted Manchester United’s business for the month was done following the Sanchez arrival.

“No, I don't speak about players," Mourinho said. 

"Tuanzebe goes on loan, nobody is leaving, nobody is coming. Our transfer market in the summer will be short."

And the MEN say Fellaini and Carrick are why.

The former started the season in fine fettle as United took the early weeks of the Premier League by storm.

However, he has struggled with injuries since and his return to action will provide a huge boost for Mourinho ahead of the rest of the season.

Carrick, meanwhile, has been limited to just one appearance so far this season.

An underlying heart problem has since his final season at the club spoiled but, like Fellaini, he is also set to return.

Mourinho lauded the veteran earlier this week and confirmed he had been offered a coaching role.

"He's a very important player for us,” he said. 

“I think the decision to be at the end of the season and not last week, I think is a good decision for the team and a good decision for him to finish playing football and not injured or with some problem.

"So we're all happy and in the end of the season I expect him to join [the coaching staff], unless he changes his mind, but the club would be very happy for him to do that. 

“I would be very happy also for him to do that."