Last night, Sander Berge’s omission from Burnley’s matchday squad raised the eyebrows of Manchester United supporters.
It came just days after reports revealed that the Red Devils had accelerated their interest by making an initial approach to Berge’s representatives, with the Norweigan international now ranking high on INEOS’ shortlist as a cut-price alternative to Manuel Ugarte.
Berge, 24, is said to be attracted to the prospect of an Old Trafford switch. He dropped down to the Championship with the Clarets last term and, the seasons prior, suffered relegation with Sheffield United. A return to the Premier League to play for the 20-time champions could prove too enticing to turn down.
Another INEOS target is dropped for club fixture
Also being targeted by United’s transfer chiefs is Youssouf Fofana, for whom they’ve attempted to hijack his prospective move to AC Milan. There has been little update on the club’s pursuit since last week, but it would take some convincing, as the ‘magnificent’ Frenchman has made it clear that his preference is the Serie A giants.
Ultimately, it depends on how much he wants to take on a new venture in 2024/2025. If Milan fail to meet Monaco’s demands, the opportunity will be there for United to swoop in and do so.
Nevertheless, Fofana, too, was left out of Monaco’s squad for their pre-season friendly with Barcelona on Monday (as verified by La Gazzetta dello Sport) – only further confirming that he’s on his way out, wherever it may be.
