Manchester United have now missed the opportunity to sign a player who could have made a huge difference for Erik ten Hag next season.
Of course, that sentence comes with a caveat – given there’s no guarantee that Ten Hag will be spearheading this new era.
Next season Man United aim to be a streamlined, younger and more cost-sensible unit, which will be the mantra of their summer transfers.
It’s already been announced that Raphael Varane and Anthony Martial will depart, two figures of the club’s expensive past.
And with a centre-back, a central midfielder and a forward on the wishlist this summer, United are likely to pursue a different type of profile.
The club will seek deals for younger players, ones who will retain their sell-on value and therefore protect the club’s position.
Moreover, if reports are to be believed, exceptions will only be made in special circumstances.
And unfortunately for all at Old Trafford, their late pursuit of Tosin Adarabioyo, who is leaving Fulham as a free agent, was ultimately unsuccessful.
Man United made late attempt to sign Tosin Adarabioyo but he already chose Chelsea
According to Mail Sport, United expressed their interest in Adarabioyo a few months ago, when it became clear that he wouldn’t sign a new deal with Fulham.
And whilst United have been busy conducting their end of season review, and in turn deciding on Ten Hag’s future, Chelsea have stolen the march.
The former Manchester City player underwent medicals at Chelsea on Tuesday, meaning United’s late efforts were in vain.
According to the report mentioned, United returned with a concrete proposal to Adarabioyo last weekend, but the defender had already committed to Enzo Maresca.
Manchester United are said to want to sign two centre-backs this summer, with their right side surely a priority.
Lisandro Martinez, who made a timely return to fitness at the end of the season, is an undisputed starter on the left when fit.
And despite some of Harry Maguire’s strong performances throughout the season, he seems likely to just be first back-up on either side of defence.
United need a new starter for the right side of their pairing, which explains why ‘special‘ Adarabioyo was such a good fit, and a real loss considering he would have joined without a transfer fee.
Of course, that may now lead the club to explore a deal for a defender Sir Jim Ratcliffe will know well.