Manchester United’s loss to AC Milan in their final pre-season friendly of the summer has raised serious questions about the readiness of the squad.
The Red Devils will be returning to the Champions League after a two-year break, and competing on four fronts means squad depth will be key.
As Saturday showed, Michael Carrick still needs reinforcements in midfield, at left-back, as well as up front.
With United’s first-choice striker Benjamin Sesko missing the club’s entire pre-season, a slow start to the season can be expected. Bryan Mbeumo is in top form, but he needs backup.
United need backup
Matheus Cunha is not ready, while Marcus Rashford remains keen on an exit, something INEOS want as well.
That leaves Joshua Zirkzee. The Dutchman has enjoyed an impressive pre-season, but his time at the club is reportedly up, with Juventus closing in on an agreement.
The 20-time English league champions were eyeing an experienced name to help fill the void, and they have been linked with a blockbuster swoop for Victor Osimhen.
The Nigerian ace has been on United’s wishlist for a long time, but he ended up joining Galatasaray after leaving Napoli.
Victor Osimhen open to a move
Now, INEOS have reportedly discussed his name internally, with the 27-year-old ready to leave Turkiye for the Premier League.
According to Football Fancast, United have “submitted an enquiry” to understand what it would take to sign him this summer.
Victor Osimhen is open to the idea of playing at the Theatre of Dreams but there are two major obstacles. While meeting his wage demands has been a long-standing problem, coming to an agreement with Gala could prove equally problematic.
“Man United have submitted an enquiry to sign Osimhen as they gather information on what it could take to sign him.
Complications galore
“During discussions with the player’s camp, they understand that the forward would be open to a move to Old Trafford, which suggests a deal could be possible if they are able to agree a fee with Galatasaray.
“However, there have been widespread reports suggesting the Turkish side have recently knocked back a £111m offer from Al-Hilal, so United may have to break the bank to get a deal over the line.”
Judging from INEOS’ transfer activity this summer, United are unlikely to come close to paying that fee. The co-owners remain keen to trim the club’s bloated wage bill as well.
The People’s Person Reliability Assessment
Overall credibility: 5/10Why?
INEOS are never coming close to matching Galatasaray and Osimhen’s demands
The source is not known for their accuracy
TPP View We believe Victor Osimhen has long been on Man United’s list, but a move remains unlikely.
Feature image Ahmad Mora via Getty Images
1 comment
MU & INEOS are talking about transfer of players with lots of names being mention but in the end nothing will happen. INEOS are not willing to pay hugh some of money with best players but prefer to get cheaper players . Talking about new season , they are always trying to get better players but just NATO. See like Arsenal , MC and Spurs all the players they purchase with high price show worth buying. MU just refer to same players but always get injured. Some players are only good in pre season. With new season coming nearer , with no good transfer MU will not be the same as last season not only INEOS is taking seriously in the transfer market. Get the wanted players out.