Manchester United is reportedly open to considering offers for several players who were previously deemed untouchable, including Kobbie Mainoo, Alejandro Garnacho, and Rasmus Hojlund. While the club is not actively seeking to offload these players, the club’s new ownership, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, recognizes that improving their ability to sell players is crucial for maintaining financial health. Given the club’s limited funds due to profitability and sustainability rules, sales have become an essential part of their squad management strategy.
The trio of Mainoo, Garnacho, and Hojlund were initially considered vital members of the squad, especially under Erik ten Hag’s management, but the current situation under Ruben Amorim, who took over as manager in October, is different. Although these players are still seen as key squad members, the club is now open to listening to offers for them, with no guarantees that a sale would be approved.
In addition to the aforementioned trio, offers for other players, including those who were signed last summer, will also be considered. This includes Leny Yoro, Noussair Mazraoui, Matthijs de Ligt, Manuel Ugarte, and Joshua Zirkzee. The club’s financial constraints and the transition to Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 system have prompted a reassessment of the squad. The potential sale of these players could help fund the acquisition of new signings that better fit Amorim’s tactical vision.
Mainoo, who signed a contract extension in February 2023, has recently attracted attention from Chelsea, though their interest has yet to materialize into a serious move. The London club is currently focused on bolstering their defense, but Mainoo’s profile as a homegrown player could make him an attractive option for Chelsea in the future. His contract reportedly earns him £20,000 a week, and his representatives may use any interest from other clubs to negotiate a more lucrative deal for the midfielder. Mainoo’s performances have been solid, including scoring the winner in last season’s FA Cup final against Manchester City, and he has become a regular starter for England, featuring in their Euro 2024 campaign, including the final.
While Mainoo and Garnacho represent potential profits due to their status as homegrown players, which would result in a 100% profit under the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules, Hojlund’s future is also up for discussion. The Danish striker has shown promise since his arrival, but the club’s financial situation means that no player is entirely untouchable.
Meanwhile, Casemiro, one of Manchester United’s highest-paid players, has also been linked with a move away from the club. Saudi Arabian clubs are reportedly monitoring the Brazilian midfielder, although no formal offers have been made as of yet. Casemiro, who turns 33 next month, has a contract with United until 2026, but his future at the club may be influenced by the club’s evolving financial and squad-building strategies.
As Amorim looks to reshape the team and implement his preferred system, the club’s transfer dealings in the coming months will likely reflect a balance between maintaining key players and making strategic sales to fund future acquisitions.
