Even by Manchester United’s standards, their end to this summer’s transfer window was highly chaotic. Erik ten Hag had signed three players by the time the Reds started their league campaign but another three would sign before the deadline.
It was hardly smooth sailing, however, with much of this summer’s window spent on trying to convince Frenkie de Jong to join from Barcelona. Ultimately, they failed in their pursuit of the Dutchman.
United’s disastrous start to the season, when they lost their first two games, forced the club into the market again but their moves were uninspiring. Adrien Rabiot was close to joining from Juventus whilst the club was left red-faced after scrapping a move to sign Marko Arnautovic.
Now, leading transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has explained what happened in the market as a result of United’s failed moves for Rabiot and Arnautovic, explaining that the Old Trafford club were offered a host of players around Europe.
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“More than 15 players have been offered to Man United that week,” Romano said on his YouTube channel when discussing the immediate aftermath of deals for Rabiot and Arnautovic collapsing.
“I can mention some of them. Like Memphis Depay on a free transfer, Moises Caicedo was a player considered by United for the midfield as Adrien Rabiot was not joining.
“Leandro Paredes was discussed between Manchester United and PSG as they were looking for solution for Paredes but Man United decided to go for something different and Paredes agreed personal terms with Juventus.
“Weston McKennie, another player offered to Manchester United but they were interested in a different kind of player for the midfield.
“(Yannick) Ferreira Carrasco was offered to Manchester United – only on a permanent deal, not on loan – Man United wanted to focus on something different.
“Christian Pulisic was discussed between Man United and Chelsea but in that case, Man United decided to try for a loan and Chelsea had no intention to accept a loan deal.”
As we all know, United did not end up completing a deal to sign any of the aforementioned players. Instead, Brazil double-act Antony and Casemiro joined the club, with Martin Dubravka also signing on deadline day.
