David Ornstein has provided an update on a potential MUFC deal. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
Manchester United and Chelsea are now in ‘advanced’ negotiations to hash out a deal for Alejandro Garnacho.
According to a fresh report from transfer expert David Ornstein this afternoon, the two rivals have ‘stepped up talks’ in hopes of reaching an agreement as swiftly as possible, with the player now adamant about sealing his desired move.
From Garnacho’s point of view, he will either join Chelsea or stay at United, having made clear to his other suitors across the continent that he is uninterested in any alternative prospects.
Being reintegrated into Ruben Amorim’s ranks has always been an option on the table in the event United cannot facilitate his exit, although it would likely take some work behind the scenes for him to rebuild his relationship with the boss.
Alejandro Garnacho: The state of play
Nonetheless, it now looks as though Garnacho will indeed end up at Stamford Bridge, meaning he will continue plying his trade in England, where he’s spent the last five years working his way through the ranks in M16.
The winger made the move to United from Atletico Madrid’s youth ranks in 2020 and was granted his first-team debut by Ralf Rangnick in April 2022, aged just 18 at the time. By 2023/2024, he had begun playing an integral role under Erik ten Hag, which continued into Amorim’s reign.
How much do United want for Garnacho?
Ornstein adds that a price of £70 million has been quoted to the sides interested in Garnacho this summer, and you couldn’t blame INEOS for standing firm in their demands. At just 21 years old, the academy graduate has racked up 144 senior appearances, scoring 26 goals and assisting a further 22.
He has won the FA Cup and the League Cup, as well the Copa America with current world champions Argentina, for whom he’s earned eight caps.
Chelsea, meanwhile, are more than capable of meeting United’s price tag. Not only did they receive a healthy £85m cash injection through winning the Club World Cup, they’ve also sanctioned a handful of exits in recent weeks, including Noni Madueke to Arsenal for £48.5m, Joao Felix to Al-Nassr for £43.7m and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall to Everton for £28m.
