Manchester United have already begun planning their summer activity if the latest reports are to be believed, with Barcelona star Ansu Fati becoming the latest player linked with a move to Old Trafford.
Last summer was dominated by rumours surrounding another Barcelona player, Frenkie de Jong, but a move for the Dutchman never materialised.
In hindsight, large parts of the United support may see that as a blessing in disguise as Casemiro joined instead – the Brazilian has been an instant hit at the club.
Erik ten Hag has brought in nine different players since he took over last year, with four of them joining on loan. Now, a permanent move for Fati is being mooted in Spain.
According to Sport, via Sport Witness, the Reds retain their interest in the winger, having been interested in the past. It’s claimed that the Old Trafford club are monitoring Fati’s situation amid his battles with injury and are interested in the Spain international’s future.
Furthermore, the outlet claims United see Fati as a priority for the summer transfer window if Barcelona opt to part ways with the player. As things stand, the Catalan club do not seem willing to sit down and discuss a move but that could change. As per the report, the coming months could be decisive.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano gave his update on the situation: “Barcelona have the option to sign Yannick Carrasco from Atletico Madrid for 20 million euros. They are still to decide but this could have an impact on the future of Ansu Fati.
“He has clubs interested in him in the Premier League, more than any other league. Barcelona president Joan Laporta has said they are not interested in selling him right now.
“He added that Ansu Fati’s agent said there are proposals for him, and keep an eye on that and the second part of the season will be crucial for him.
“I can confirm that English clubs have had conversations with the agent of Ansu Fati asking for the potential conditions of the deal. Clubs like Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool were informed on the general situation. They never made a bid or negotiations with Barcelona but they are well informed.”
SN’s verdict…
Fati made a name for himself at Barcelona in 2019 but since then, he has endured three excruciating years due to injuries and his place in the side is far from guaranteed.
He inherited Lionel Messi’s iconic No10 shirt when the Argentine joined Paris Saint-Germain in 2021 but perhaps an exit is closer than ever.
At United, Ten Hag may be planning for a different left-sided winger to dominate that flank. Marcus Rashford has been in stunning form this season and with just 18 months remaining on his contract, United will be desperate to tie him down to a long-term deal sooner rather than later.
