Tag: Manchester United

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David de Gea, who parted ways with Manchester United last summer as a free agent, seems to be nearing the end of his search for a new club.

The Spanish goalkeeper’s departure from Old Trafford occurred after unsuccessful negotiations over a contract renewal, despite earlier suggestions that he had agreed to a new contract.

In the months following his exit from United, De Gea, previously with Atletico Madrid, has been associated with several teams in the Saudi Pro League. Al-Shabab has emerged as the most recent club showing interest in him.

According to MailOnline, discussions are underway between Al-Shabab and the 33-year-old for a potential move.

If he joins Al-Shabab, De Gea will be among other notable players at the club. They have already acquired Belgium’s Yannick Carrasco from Atletico Madrid last September and are close to signing Ivan Rakitic from Sevilla. The club is also rumored to be considering moves for Miguel Almiron from Newcastle and Hakim Ziyech from Chelsea.

Al-Shabab, based in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, is a six-time champion of the Saudi Pro League. They currently hold the 11th position in the league, following a fourth-place finish in the previous season.

Previously, De Gea was linked with Al-Nassr, a club that gained significant attention after signing Cristiano Ronaldo over a year ago, which marked a significant step in the Pro League’s ambition to become a top global football competition.

The Saudi Pro League has been a destination for several prominent goalkeepers from Europe. Among them are Edouard Mendy, formerly of Chelsea, and Morocco’s Yassine Bounou, who joined Al-Ahli and Al Hilal, respectively.

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Manchester United has now emerged as a contender in the pursuit of Genk’s promising attacking midfielder Bilal El Khannouss, a target also on Liverpool’s radar, as stated by FootballTransfers.

El Khannouss, at just 19, has made a significant impact at Genk, showcasing his talent in 76 appearances, scoring four goals and providing ten assists. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with interest from several top clubs.

Although born in Belgium, El Khannouss has chosen to represent Morocco internationally, having already earned ten caps, including three substitute appearances at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

El Khannouss’s ability to play in multiple positions, including as a No. 8 or in wider attacking roles, has made him a sought-after prospect. Manchester United’s interest in him aligns with their strategy to focus on younger talent, a shift influenced by the recent investment from the INEOS group.

Liverpool has been actively scouting El Khannouss and has reportedly held discussions with his agents. However, the competition for his signature extends beyond the Premier League, with Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen and Atletico Madrid also reportedly in the mix, as per FootballTransfers.

El Khannouss is known for his versatility, effectively functioning as an advanced playmaker, a No. 8, or a winger. His playing style has drawn comparisons to Christian Eriksen, who has had a mixed season at Manchester United.

Genk is expected to demand a transfer fee in the region of €25 million to €30 million for El Khannouss. Although Manchester United is currently constrained by Financial Fair Play regulations, there is a possibility of a deal materialising if they can offload a couple more players.

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In the latest transfer news, Manchester United is reportedly eyeing Sporting’s defensive midfielder Morten Hjulmand as a future prospect for their team.

According to Portuguese outlet Record, negotiations have already begun for the Danish international, who has a significant £68million release clause in his current contract.

As per the report, United, understanding the terms of the deal, knows that they need to meet the £68million price tag to secure the 24-year-old’s services. Sporting, on their part, is keen to retain Hjulmand and are considering offering him the role of captain in an effort to persuade him to stay.

The situation at Sporting has led to this move, as reported by Record. With Neto nearing the end of his career, Coates facing an uncertain future, and Inacio being eyed by major European clubs, Hjulmand is being considered for a leadership role under coach Amorim for the upcoming season.

At Old Trafford, there is a growing need for a solid defensive midfielder. Although Casemiro, the current primary play breaker, has been effective, his best years are behind him.

Amrabat, on loan from Fiorentina, has failed to deliver consistent performances since his arrival.

Thus, the addition of Hjulmand, who is a key player for Liga Nos leaders, is seen as a crucial move for Manchester United.

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In the latest transfer news, Italian news outlet Corriere dello Sport report that Manchester United is keen on acquiring Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite before the close of the January transfer window this Thursday.

While Real Madrid and Chelsea have also expressed interest in the player, it appears Manchester United is leading the race.

According to the report, Erik ten Hag is reportedly pushing for a deal that could reach £40m, including bonuses. However, Everton’s Sean Dyche is firm on his stance regarding Branthwaite, labeling the young defender as indispensable, especially in their fight to avoid relegation. Everton’s current plan is to retain Branthwaite at least until the summer transfer window, although financial pressures could influence their decision.

Branthwaite’s performance this season has been noteworthy, with the defender starting 18 of Everton’s 21 games. His defensive prowess is highlighted by his impressive tackle success rate of 80.6%, placing him seventh in the league. Additionally, Branthwaite’s high rate of clearances and interceptions showcases his excellent positioning and commitment to defending.

With the January transfer window rapidly closing, it remains uncertain if Manchester United will secure Branthwaite’s services now or have to wait until summer. There’s also speculation that Everton’s situation might lead to a more favorable transfer fee, potentially making Branthwaite a valuable acquisition for United.

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Amidst rumors of an imminent departure, Casemiro has expressed his commitment to Manchester United, emphasising his desire to continue winning titles at Old Trafford.

Joining United from Real Madrid in 2022 for £70million, the Brazilian midfielder played a pivotal role in the team’s success, breaking their six-year trophy drought with a Carabao Cup victory last February. Despite an impressive first season, Casemiro has grappled with injuries in his second year, affecting his form and leading to speculation about his future at the club.

Recent reports suggested that Sir Jim Ratcliffe, United’s new co-owner and head of football operations, was contemplating buying out Casemiro’s contract to remove him from the team’s payroll. These speculations gained traction due to Casemiro’s absence from the field since November 1, although he is expected to return for the FA Cup fourth-round match against Newport County.

Contradicting these rumors, Casemiro shared his positive experiences at United with MBC. “It’s all amazing, since the first day, I was made to feel very welcome by the club, the players and the fans. I received so much love – on and off the pitch. It was a unique and magical experience, and I needed such an experience.”

“I am so happy in Manchester with everything the city and the club offer me. I am happy with that and with helping the club improve and get back to the path of achievements. So yeah, I’m happy to play for Manchester United,” he said.

This statement from Casemiro puts to rest the recent buzz about his potential move to Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, where his former colleague Cristiano Ronaldo is currently playing. Al-Nassr was reportedly planning a substantial bid for Casemiro, encouraged by Ronaldo’s high praise of his former teammate at Real Madrid and United.

Despite Casemiro’s contentment at United, Ratcliffe’s dissatisfaction with recent recruitment decisions at the club, including Casemiro’s signing, could still influence his future. If Al-Nassr presents a substantial offer, it might challenge Casemiro’s stated happiness at Old Trafford and his current stance on staying with the club.

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Manchester United’s interest in Michael Olise has become increasingly pronounced, with the player himself now seemingly open to a move to Old Trafford.

Football.London, in an exclusive piece, has highlighted the tussle between Chelsea and Manchester United for the 22-year-old’s signature. However, the report states that it appears Olise’s personal admiration for the Red Devils might see him lean towards a move to Manchester over the London Blues.

Previously, Chelsea had triggered a £35million clause for Olise, but Crystal Palace successfully renegotiated with the player, incorporating a significantly higher release clause in his contract. Now, it’s understood that Olise’s release clause stands at £60million.

In a strategic move, as per the report, United are contemplating offering Aaron Wan-Bissaka back to Crystal Palace as part of a swap deal to secure Olise. The French winger, despite spending a considerable part of the season sidelined due to injuries, has been impressive on the field. In his limited appearances, he has managed to score five goals in just seven starts in the Premier League.

Olise, who plays for France’s U-21 team, has shown his prowess on the wing, making him a valuable target for top Premier League clubs.

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In a tense FA Cup fourth-round clash, Manchester United narrowly avoided an upset at the hands of League Two’s Newport County, ultimately securing their progression in the competition.

The game began with United in high gear, as they quickly established a 2-0 lead thanks to the finesse of Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo within the first 13 minutes. Despite Alejandro Garnacho hitting the woodwork and United’s initial dominance, Newport County, spurred on by a vibrant home crowd at Rodney Parade, mounted a remarkable comeback.

The gap on the league table, which separates the two teams by 73 places, seemed irrelevant as Bryn Morris’ strike deflected off Lisandro Martinez to beat debutant United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir at the 36-minute mark. The energy at Rodney Parade reached fever pitch just two minutes into the second half, when Adam Lewis’ cross was capitalized on by Will Evans, drawing Newport level to the delight of their fervent supporters.

However, United managed to restore their lead in the 68th minute. Antony was quick to pounce on a rebound off the post from Luke Shaw’s effort, putting the ball past Newport’s Nick Townsend. Rasmus Hojlund later cemented United’s victory with a close-range finish, following Omari Forson’s attempt being thwarted by Townsend.

Despite the late fightback, Newport County couldn’t mount another response, allowing United to breathe a sigh of relief as they booked a fifth-round spot against either Bristol City or Nottingham Forest.

The player ratings from the match reflected a range of performances:

– Altay Bayindir: 6/10

– Diogo Dalot: 6/10

– Raphael Varane: 5/10

– Lisandro Martinez: 7/10

– Luke Shaw: 6/10

– Kobbie Mainoo: 7/10

– Casemiro: 6/10

– Bruno Fernandes: 7/10 (Man of the Match)

– Antony: 6/10

– Hojlund: 6/10

– Garnacho: 5/10

Substitutes Willy Kambwala, Scott McTominay, Omari Forson, Jonny Evans, and Harry Maguire were not rated due to their brief appearances.

Erik ten Hag, getd a 5/10 rating. His team’s performance was below par as usual, they almost squandered a lead against a tier-2 team, indicating vulnerabilities despite fielding a strong lineup.

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In the upcoming fourth-round clash of the FA Cup, Manchester United will be looking to steer clear of an upset as they face off against League Two’s Newport County this Sunday.

Under Erik ten Hag’s leadership, the team has enjoyed a two-week hiatus since their last game. In contrast, Newport County has been more active, having played two matches during the same timeframe.

The Red Devils are planning to field a formidable lineup for this encounter. Notably, there will be a fresh face between the posts: Altay Bayindir is expected to step in for Andre Onana, who is currently engaged in the Africa Cup of Nations with Cameroon.

In other team news, Harry Maguire and Casemiro have both made the trip to South Wales, signaling their return to the squad. However, there are uncertainties surrounding Marcus Rashford and Jonny Evans, both of whom are questionable for the game.

This match promises to be a significant occasion, marking not only Bayindir’s debut for United but also potentially seeing another young player making their first appearance in a senior squad.

Early Team News:

– Altay Bayindir is poised for his debut, filling in for Andre Onana.

– Harry Maguire and Casemiro return to the team following their injuries.

– Lisandro Martinez might start, following his return against Tottenham.

– Elyh Harrison, a teenage goalkeeper, might find a spot on the bench.

– Jonny Evans and Marcus Rashford are doubtful participants for the match.

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Today’s FA Cup clash is drawing significant attention as Manchester United prepares to take on Newport County at Rodney Parade in just two hours, aiming to dodge an upset.

After a break of two weeks following their draw against Tottenham in the Premier League, Erik ten Hag’s team is looking to leverage their extra rest time to their advantage.

The squad could see the return of several key players for today’s match, including Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw, who are both contenders to start in the South Wales game.

In other team news, Altay Bayindir is expected to make his Manchester United debut, as Andre Onana is away for the Africa Cup of Nations.

Ten Hag has indicated that Martinez and Shaw are likely to be in the squad for today’s game. Although Harry Maguire has resumed training, his participation in today’s match is uncertain. Victor Lindelof and Tyrell Malacia are still out of action. Additionally, Jonny Evans has been battling illness and his availability remains doubtful.

Casemiro is anticipated to make a return, but Mason Mount is still sidelined. In the forward line, Marcus Rashford’s presence is uncertain due to illness.

The predicted lineup for Manchester United is as follows:

GK: Altay Bayindir
RB: Aaron Wan-Bissaka
CB: Raphael Varane
CB: Lisandro Martinez
LB: Diogo Dalot
CM: Kobbie Mainoo
CM: Christian Eriksen
RW: Antony
CAM: Bruno Fernandes
LW: Alejandro Garnacho
ST: Rasmus Hojlund

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Erik ten Hag could potentially secure the services of Denzel Dumfries from Inter Milan this summer. This transfer is highly probable if Ten Hag continues his tenure at United, according to FC Inter News.

Dumfries, a standout player for the Netherlands, has been frequently mentioned in connection with a move to Old Trafford. The upcoming summer might see United actively pursuing him.

The contract of the Dutch defender with Inter is set to expire in June of the following year, and Dumfries has shown little interest in renewing his contract with the Italian club, primarily due to disagreements over his salary. Inter has offered approximately €4m annually, falling short of Dumfries’ requested €5m per year.

A complicating factor in negotiations is the recent abolition of the Growth Decree in Italy, which imposes additional tax burdens on new contracts for foreign players.

Manchester United has expressed interest in the right-sided defender, and under Ten Hag’s management, who holds Dumfries in high regard, United might actively try to secure his signature.

At Manchester United, the current right-back situation sees Aaron Wan-Bissaka receiving limited playing time. Ten Hag has shown a preference for Diogo Dalot in this position due to his offensive capabilities.

Despite Wan-Bissaka’s contract being extended until June 2025, his future at the club remains uncertain, especially if he does not agree to new terms. His potential departure could clear the path for Dumfries’ arrival at United.

Dumfries, who played as a right-back at PSV Eindhoven, has been repositioned as a right wing-back at Inter Milan, a role that has showcased his attacking strengths.

Despite playing only 1240 minutes this season, Dumfries has contributed to six goals and has consistently won over four duels per game, aligning well with Ten Hag’s dynamic playing style.

His current market value stands at around €30 million, indicating the likely cost for United should they pursue his transfer this summer.