A round-up of Manchester United transfer news ahead of a key summer for the club…
There are four potential incomings linked over the past 24 hours and one imminent exit.
Joao Neves
Manchester United are leading the pursuit of Premier League rivals in the chase for Benfica wonderkid Joao Neves.
O Jogo report United’s interest in the Portugal international is the most advanced, however, Neves has a release clause of more than £100 million.
It is hard to imagine United sanctioning a huge fee like this on a single player this summer. A hue fee would turn a potentially very exciting swoop into one where the player arrives under immense pressure.
Excitement rating: 3/5
Antonio Silva
Manchester United are paying ‘particular attention’ to Neves’ Benfica teammate Antonio Silva, O Jogo report.
Silva plays in Manchester United’s biggest position of need at centre-back, and would be a long-term solution for the position as a replacement for Raphael Varane.
He made 50 appearances in all competitions for Benfica last season, but also has a hefty release clause of around £80 million.
Excitement rating: 4/5
Goncalo Inacio
Another Portuguese centre-back on Manchester United’s radar, Sporting defender Goncalo Inacio, 22, is a little more experienced than Silva, 20.
Fabrizio Romano says United have been scouting Inacio, with competition also emerging from Liverpool.
Inacio’s release clause is cheaper than Silva’s, around £50 million, however, Romano insists United are first targeting a right-footed centre-back, with a possible move for left-footer Inacio coming later on if funds are there.
Excitement rating: 3/5
Mikayil Faye
Manchester United have been given a boost in pursuit of Barcelona prospect Mikhail Faye, with the defender keen to leave.
The Mail report Faye is expecting to be sold with Barcelona looking to raise funds for their own summer spending.
Faye, 19, is a Senegal international centre-back who is yet to make his Barcelona debut, although was named on the bench late in the season.
Excitement rating: 1/5
OUTGOING: Omari Forson
Omari Forson is set to leave Manchester United on a free transfer, Fabrizio Romano first reported last night.
Erik ten Hag handed Forson his debut earlier in 2024 and he even made an appearance in the FA Cup semi-final.
But his expiring contract was always lingering, and Forson will officially leave when his contract expires on June 30.
It is always a shame to see young promising players leave the club, but the jury was still out on Forson, and he might regret his decision to leave.
Disappointment rating: 3/5