Manchester United linked with shock move for Ross Barkley

LUTON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 18: Marcus Rashford of Manchester United runs ahead of Ross Barkley of Luton Town during the Premier League match between Luton Town and Manchester United at Kenilworth Road on February 18, 2024 in Luton, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

Manchester United have been linked with a shock move for Luton Town star Ross Barkley after the former England international has resurrected his career at the newly-promoted club.

Barkley made a name for himself at Everton before his big move to Chelsea but he failed to leave a lasting impression at Stamford Bridge.

Since then, the midfielder has struggled for consistency and recently joined Luton Town, where he has found himself again and is one of their most important players.

Prior to his move to Luton, Barkley was on Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s roster at Nice and now, it is being claimed that United are lining up a shock move for the 30-year-old.

That’s according to The Sun, who say that Ratcliffe and Sir Dave Brailsford are huge admirers of the midfielder and that he is on United’s wanted list this summer.

As per the report, Barkley could leave the Hatters if they are relegated back to the Championship and United have decided not to exercise the option to make Sofyan Amrabat’s loan permanent. Furthermore, it is also stated that Casemiro could also leave the club this summer if United can find a buyer.

Scott McTominay’s future at Old Trafford remains up in the air and perhaps Barkley is a player United are looking at but in truth, he does not fit the criteria of United’s long-term needs.

Erik ten Hag is still lacking a dominant midfield force and although he seems to have struck gold with Kobbie Mainoo, the lack of support next to him is alarming and needs to be addressed.