One deal is almost over the line while the other two will take some haggling
It appears that we will see Manchester United move in a new transfer direction over the summer. The days of big-money splurges and hefty pay deals may be a thing of the past.
United, who reached the Champions League quarter final but only finished sixth in the Premier League, have said goodbye to club captain Antonio Valencia and Ander Herrera already, with Marouane Fellaini departing back in January. David De Gea’s representatives are seeking a pay rise but the club are not willing to budge too much while they are desperately hoping to move flop Alexis Sanchez on.
With Ole Gunnar Solskjaer looking to re-energise (or actually energise) his squad over the summer, United are embarking on a transfer strategy of bringing in younger players with potential, and ones that have shown promise in the early seasons of senior football.
Personal terms have reportedly been agreed with Swansea winger Daniel James, with United just trying to settle on a figure for the 21-year-old. James is set to be the first arrival but United have a long shopping list, with two English youngsters next up.
Two separate reports in the UK press have linked United with a swoop for Crystal Palace right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka. Again, the final transaction fee is expected to be the main hold-up.
United have reportedly opened their negotiations with a £25m bid for the 21-year-old but Palace are said to be holding out for £50m.
Not content with those two prospects, The Telegraph report that United are planning to take advantage over the uncertainty that surrounds Newcastle United and bid for 21-year-old midfielder Sean Longstaff.
Longstaff has made nine league appearances for the club and finished the season as a regular in Rafa Benitez’ starting XI. However, Benitez may be moving on if he is not given guarantees over a transfer kitty of his own.
Reputed player-tracking site Transfermarkt currently values Longstaff at just under £3m but any young, homegrown player with first team experience in the top flight would be more likely to command a starting bid of £10m.
With some shrewd dealing, and bonus clauses for future performances and achievements, United could get these three players in for somewhere in the region of £55m.
Over to you, Ed Woodward.
