Tag: Manchester United

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According to reports from the Portuguese news outlet Record in its latest edition, Manchester United is considering a proposal to offload Alvaro Fernandez to Benfica.

The deal for the 20-year-old, who is a product of Real Madrid’s academy, might conclude for a sum slightly below €7 million.

Fernandez, who played in Manchester United’s pre-season games last summer, subsequently moved on a loan to Granada before the close of the transfer window.

During his stint in La Liga, the young left-back has struggled for game time, clocking in under 400 minutes on the pitch. There’s ongoing speculation about a potential recall to Manchester United this winter.

In the meantime, Benfica has shown interest in acquiring Fernandez, with plans to possibly finalize the transfer either in the upcoming January window or wait until the summer.

As per Record’s coverage, Manchester United’s asking price for Fernandez hovers around the €7 million mark. However, this figure might be negotiated down if Benfica agrees to include a sell-on clause in the deal.

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Benfica’s Antonio Silva, a 20-year-old defensive sensation, is attracting significant attention, with Liverpool now joining the race for his signature, reports 90Min.

Silva, who has become a mainstay in Benfica’s lineup this season, earned high praise from ex-Manchester City coach Juanma Lillo, who previously described him as an ‘absurd’ talent.

“The young centre-back from Benfica, Antonio Silva, is not even playing. Do you know how good this kid is? Incredible. He’s absurd,” Lillo remarked about Silva’s abilities.

However, Liverpool faces a challenging task in their pursuit of Silva. According to multiple reports, Manchester United’s Erik ten Hag is also showing a strong interest in bringing the player to Old Trafford in the upcoming summer.

Silva, whose contract reportedly includes a hefty £88m release clause, represents a significant investment. Benfica’s coach Roger Schmidt was quoted stating that there are no plans to sell Silva in January.

In today’s football economy, securing top young talents like Silva comes at a substantial cost. With the price tag set at £88m, both United and Liverpool might need to allocate considerable funds to secure his services.

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As Manchester United gears up for a new era with Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS acquiring a significant stake in the club, former United star Dimitar Berbatov has voiced his opinion on the team’s potential transfer targets.

Berbatov, speaking with Betfair, pinpointed Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich as an ideal signing for United under Ratcliffe’s impending leadership.

Ratcliffe is set to hold a 25 percent stake in Manchester United following the Christmas Eve announcement of an agreement between his company and the club.

Furthermore, he will take over the football operations from the Glazers after the necessary regulatory approvals are finalized, a process expected to last four to six weeks.

Despite the window for the January transfer closing before Ratcliffe officially assumes control, it has been reported that major transfer decisions for this period would still require his approval.

Berbatov, in a discussion with Betfair, identified Bayern Munich midfielder Joshua Kimmich as a prime target for Manchester United under Ratcliffe’s impending regime.

He stated: “Going forward with the takeover, I wonder how brave Man United will be in the transfer market. Joshua Kimmich is being linked, but he’s such an important player for Bayern Munich. Can I see him leaving Bayern and coming to United in the January transfer window? I don’t think that will happen.

“Maybe we can speak about this transfer in the summer, but he’s someone who is highly regarded at his current club.”

He further added, “With Casemiro’s injuries and form, maybe United are going to look for a replacement.

“Let’s not forget about Scott McTominay though, he’s there and playing well, but if Casemiro is not going to be counted on to continue to play because of his age and injuries, then of course, you need to buy someone to replace him. Kimmich is someone who fits perfectly in that position, but does he want to leave Bayern? That’s going to be a tough decision.”

The article also sheds light on criticism Kimmich has recently faced in Germany.

Following Bayern Munich’s unexpected 5-1 defeat to Frankfurt in the Bundesliga, former Bayern Munich star Lothar Matthaus criticized Kimmich’s recent form and demeanor.

Speaking on Sky90, Matthaus said, “Not only on the pitch but even post-match Kimmich isn’t as visible as he used to be. I’m sure that has its reasons.

“He’s hiding. Previously, Kimmich had usually been – at least until a year or six months ago – someone who clearly and openly expressed his views in front of the camera even after defeats.

“Over the last two years, Kimmich has been properly getting his a** kicked, including by us [the media] because he just hasn’t been performing at the level we expect from him.”

These statements and the unfolding situation at Manchester United highlight the complexities and challenges of high-profile player transfers in European football.

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Sir Dave Brailsford, representing INEOS, was spotted at Old Trafford observing the thrilling 3-2 victory, just a couple of days following Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s striking £1.3billion investment for a 25% share in the club.

This significant move sees the Glazers passing the baton for all football-related decisions to INEOS, placing Ratcliffe and his team at the forefront of the club’s recruitment strategies starting from the upcoming January transfer window.

With the January and summer transfer windows approaching, Manchester United appears to be focusing on strengthening their forward line. This comes in the wake of the need to find a replacement for Martial and to provide effective competition for Hojlund.

Attention has turned to Viktor Gyokeres of Sporting Club, who has emerged as a potent force in European football this season.

United’s interest in Gyokeres, a 25-year-old striker who has had an impressive tenure at Lisbon, is noted by the Portuguese publication Correio da Manha. His performance since moving from Coventry City for £17million in the summer has been notable, with Gyokeres scoring 17 goals and providing eight assists in 20 appearances for Sporting.

For United to secure Gyokeres, they would need to meet his £87m release clause, as reported. Sporting, however, is making efforts to retain him at least until the season’s end.

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Manchester United are reportedly setting their sights on PSV Eindhoven’s talented playmaker, Johan Bakayoko. This interest places them in direct competition with Liverpool, who are also keen on the Belgian star.

Sport 1’s Christopher Michel has highlighted Manchester United’s growing interest in the Belgian sensation, known for his impressive performances in the Dutch league.

Bakayoko, whose contract with PSV is set to end in 2026, is currently valued at about £34.6 million, equivalent to 40 million euros, according to Michel.

Liverpool’s interest in Bakayoko was evident last summer, and recent reports suggest they remain intent on bringing him to Anfield, as reported by Paisley Gates.

Manchester United’s pursuit comes in the wake of their significant investment in Brazilian international Antony, acquired from Ajax for a substantial £86 million.

Antony, however, has not lived up to expectations at Old Trafford, failing to score or assist in the 20 appearances under Ten Hag this season. His overall contribution to the club stands at 8 goals and 3 assists in 64 games.

In a stark contrast, Bakayoko has been a key figure for PSV, contributing four goals and thirteen assists across all competitions. Under his influence, PSV has achieved a remarkable run, winning all sixteen of their league matches and advancing to the Round of 16 in the UEFA Champions League.

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Manchester United announced an agreement with Sir Jim Ratcliffe for the acquisition of a 25 percent stake in the club on Christmas Eve. The deal valued at £1.25 billion, was confirmed by the club.

The Times has reported that as a condition of this partial takeover, there is a mutual understanding between Ratcliffe and the Glazer family, the current owners, to refrain from publicly criticising each other.

Specifically, the agreement states that Trawlers Limited, Ratcliffe’s company, is prohibited from making any public statements that would directly attack or disparage the Glazers, Manchester United, or their affiliates.

Similarly, the agreement requires the Glazer family to avoid public criticism of Ratcliffe. This non-disparagement clause is a key aspect of the deal.

Further details emerged from internal communications at Manchester United, revealing that the Glazers have instructed staff not to speak about the minority takeover by Ratcliffe.

The agreement also outlines that two executives from Ratcliffe’s INEOS group, Sir Dave Brailsford and Jean-Claude Blanc, are set to join Manchester United’s board.

Although the Premier League has yet to give its official approval to this partial takeover, United is expected to consult with INEOS on any potential transfer dealings in the upcoming January window.

The completion of the deal is subject to the approval of both the Premier League and the club’s Class A shareholders. Upon finalisation, the Glazer family will receive £715 million from the sale of their shares to Ratcliffe, the British billionaire.

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A significant shift has occurred in the ownership structure at Manchester United. Joel and Avram Glazer, the American owners who hold the majority stake in the club, have offloaded 25% of their shares. The buyer, British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe, completed the acquisition on Christmas Eve, in a deal estimated at £1.25 billion. This transfer of shares is pending approval from the Premier League.

This development marks a significant change in the management of the club’s football operations, which will now be overseen by Ratcliffe. This shift is seen as a move away from the Glazer family, who have faced widespread criticism from the club’s fanbase.

Despite the change, there remains a sense of dissatisfaction among fans due to the Glazer family retaining a majority stake in Manchester United.

Amidst this backdrop, a leaked email from the Glazers to club staff has surfaced, offering a glimpse into their thoughts on the deal. Published by Sky, the correspondence from Joel and Avram Glazer highlights their perspective on how the partnership with Ratcliffe and his company, INEOS, will benefit the club.

The email reads: “Dear Colleagues. We are pleased to share the news that the Board has agreed a deal for INEOS Chairman, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, to acquire up to 25 per cent of A & B shares of Manchester United.

“This follows the strategic review over the past year in which we have explored a number of different options to help strengthen the Club and ensure additional funds intended for investment in infrastructure.

“We know Manchester United has great strengths – not least its people. This deal will help to unlock more of the potential that you have helped build in this great Club.

“As part of the partnership, the Board has asked INEOS, with their agreement, to have oversight and responsibility for the Club’s football operations.

“This will include all aspects of the men’s and women’s football operation and the Academies, with the aim of delivering a world-class, high-performance environment supporting success on the pitch.

“This will build on the Club’s many existing strengths, including industry-leading success off the pitch.

“INEOS brings expertise and experience from inside and outside the game that we believe can benefit Manchester United. We know from our conversations that they share our ambition and aspiration to ensure that the Club returns to the top of English, European and world football and together we will work hard to help make that happen.

“The transaction is subject to the usual regulatory and Premier League approvals, and we hope it will be completed as soon as possible. During this period Sir Jim and INEOS do not plan to make any public statements.

“Moving forward, they will work closely with Patrick Stewart, as interim CEO, and the Executive Leadership Team as they integrate into the Club. We understand this process has taken time and has inevitably created some uncertainty for colleagues. But it has been important to conduct the strategic review thoroughly and to find the right partner to take us forward. Thank you for your patience.

“We are excited about the opportunity ahead and realistic about the hard work and commitment that it will require from everyone at Manchester United to help realise it. However, we know from more than 18 years’ experience working with you, that we can count on your diligence, dedication, and ability.”

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Getafe is making a significant move to secure Mason Greenwood from Manchester United on a permanent basis, according to The Sun.

The Spanish club, currently in La Liga, is reportedly willing to shatter their previous transfer record by proposing a £40m deal for the young forward.

Greenwood, whose stint in Spain has been marked by impressive performances, has attracted attention from heavyweight clubs like Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Atletico Madrid.

His skills on the pitch have garnered accolades from Getafe’s coach Jose Bordalas, and Atletico Madrid star Antoine Griezmann has also praised his abilities.

Manchester United decided to let Greenwood go following a six-month inquiry into his off-field behavior. His commendable form after a 20-month hiatus has put Manchester United in a dilemma.

They now have to choose between potentially reintegrating him into their squad, a move that could stir controversy, or capitalizing on his high market value.

Greenwood is still under contract with the Premier League club until the summer of 2025.

The final decision regarding Greenwood’s future at Manchester United is expected to be in the hands of the new leadership team, led by incoming minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who will soon be overseeing football operations and player recruitment at the club.

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Manchester United’s young talent, Hannibal Mejbri, will not be joining the Tunisia team for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations. This decision is part of a strategic move to facilitate a loan transfer in January.

The 20-year-old, who previously played for Monaco, has made an impression at Manchester United this season. Despite the team’s injury woes, he managed to accumulate five Premier League appearances and two in the Champions League.

Hannibal, a usual fixture in the Tunisia national team for the last two years and with 27 international caps to his name, was unexpectedly missing from the squad list released on Thursday.

Reports suggest that Hannibal himself chose to opt out of the national squad. This choice is understood to be a crucial step in his career development, as he seeks to gain more playing time and experience.

Journalist Fabrizio Romano has indicated that Hannibal’s focus is on securing a loan move as soon as the transfer window reopens, rather than participating in the national tournament.

While Hannibal has had limited opportunities under United’s coach Erik ten Hag, the imminent returns of players like Casemiro and Mason Mount are likely to further reduce his playing time.

In contrast, several clubs have shown interest in offering him a regular role. Among these are La Liga’s Sevilla, Ligue 1’s Lyon, currently facing relegation challenges, and Bundesliga’s Freiburg.

These clubs are keen to have Hannibal available throughout January and February, a requirement that would be difficult to meet if he participated in a potentially lengthy campaign at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Consequently, Hannibal has been excluded from Tunisia’s squad as he deliberates over his loan options and decides which team he will join for the latter half of the season.

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In a recent development reported by the Independent, it has been revealed that Manchester United and the Glazer family are obligated to pay Sir Jim Ratcliffe a significant sum if they decide to abandon a deal for him to acquire a minority stake in the club.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe, a billionaire in the petrochemical industry, has agreed to purchase a 25% stake in Manchester United for £1.3 billion. This stake is expected to increase to 29% following his investment of $300 million into the club’s infrastructure, which will subsequently be converted into additional shares.

The transaction is currently awaiting the green light from several regulatory bodies, including the Premier League. This process is estimated to take approximately eight weeks.

However, should Manchester United and the Glazer family opt out of this agreement before it’s finalised, they are bound to pay Sir Jim a termination fee. This fee includes $48 million along with a sum that will not exceed $18 million to compensate for his expenses, all payable within three business days.

Furthermore, the contract includes specific clauses regarding future share dealings. Sir Jim is granted the first right of refusal for a year if the Glazers, whose ownership in the club will decrease to 49%, decide to sell additional shares.

Conversely, in the event of a complete sale of the club by the Glazers within the next 18 months, Sir Jim would be required to sell his shares at the same price he paid – $33 each.

As part of the agreement, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, a passionate 71-year-old Manchester United fan, will acquire two seats on the club’s board and two on the PLC board.

He plans to delegate these responsibilities to former Juventus CEO Jean-Claude Blanc and Sir Dave Brailsford in the club, and to Ineos CFO John Reece and Rob Nevin, chairman of Ineos Sport, in the PLC.