So far, Ineos are really sticking to their promise that from now on, Manchester United will be sensible in the transfer market. So much so that their expectant fanbase are starting to get a little restless.
A midfield rebuild is in the works, one that is long overdue. Brazilian midfielder Ederson has already been secured from Atalanta, a move that will be completed after the World Cup.
United have otherwise been frustrated in their pursuit of other top targets and remain no closer to bringing in that marquee name in midfield to give them a chance of challenging for the title next season.
The i Paper understands that despite stepping up talks with West Ham for Mateus Fernandes, United could walk away from the deal as they believe the asking price is too high, leaving Tottenham free to secure the in-demand Portuguese starlet’s signature.
An alternative midfield target
As a result, they have turned their attentions to Bournemouth livewire Alex Scott. No contact has been made as yet, but talks are ongoing with Scott’s representatives.
It is understood that Bournemouth have no desire to sell at this stage, so would also need to be tempted by an inflated offer – just what Ineos are trying to keep United away from.
Sources insisted United believe a fee under £80m – the amount West Ham are demanding for Fernandes – could still be agreed with Bournemouth for the talented 22-year-old.
United had hoped to secure as many as three midfielders this summer, with Fernandes brought in before splurging on a marquee name. The price tag for a midfielder relegated twice in two seasons may force a change of tact.
The Man City problem
Elliot Anderson was their dream target, but not at the British record fee Manchester City have just agreed with Nottingham Forest. Several sources indicated City could in fact bring in Anderson and Sandro Tonali this summer, given midfield is where they are desperately short.
By cashing in on Savinho and several other unwanted fringe players, City could position themselves into a powerful financial position, where they can afford an outlay of over £200m on two central midfield options.
That could mean two more United targets are gone from the market. Premier League experience is a key prerequisite for the club’s hierarchy, but the options are set to dwindle.
Three outgoings
Selling Marcus Rashford, Radek Vitek and Manuel Ugarte would enable the club to loosen the purse strings somewhat.
Rashford is currently a target for Tottenham but, as it stands, the England forward does not want to move to another Premier League club. United are looking to recoup £40m, but several sources insisted a fee closer to £25m is the best they can hope for. Barcelona are monitoring the situation and ready with another loan offer.
Senior officials had hoped to have at least two midfielders in by now, so they could focus on strengthening three other key areas – full-back, left-wing and reserve goalkeeper.
Five more targets
United are looking at a host of understudy goalkeepers, such as Leeds stopper Karl Darlow and Wolves’ Sam Johnstone, who represent good value for money.
Crysencio Summerville and Everton’s Iliman Ndiaye are two wing options being explored, at the right price, while Alejandro Balde from Barcelona is an option at left-back.
It is in midfield where the club surely will be forced to act sooner rather than later. Fernandes is understood to be keen on the Spurs move, and with champions Arsenal also targeting Scott, United need to act fast or face missing out on another top target and further frustrating the fanbase.
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