Barcelona abandon pursuit of United target, €30m now opens door for Ineos to sign “dangerous” La Liga star – report

Manchester United have just received a significant lift in their chase for Levante UD striker Karl Etta Eyong. The La Liga forward, described by former Cameroon coach Marc Brys as dangerous, unpredictable, and full of surprises, is firmly on INEOS’ radar as they continue to monitor striking options. Zirkzee replacement With Joshua Zirkzee persistently linked with a move away, the Red Devils are actively scouring the market for his replacement. The 20-time English champions appear keen to secure a ready-made replacement should the Dutchman depart, and Eyong, available for his €30 million release clause, looks a strong candidate. Yet, while United were preparing to prise the 22-year-old out of the Estadio Ciudad de Valencia, one formidable obstacle loomed: Barcelona. Barcelona a major threat in the Eyong race Robert Lewandowski’s time at Camp Nou is drawing to a close, with his contract set to expire this summer. Replacing the Polish striker has become a top priority for the Catalan giants, and Eyong was initially viewed as the ideal successor. Many believed the player would naturally prioritise a move to Barcelona, leaving other suitors trailing behind. That prospect understandably had INEOS concerned, but fresh reports suggest they no longer need to worry. What Barcelona really think about signing Eyong According to Football Espana: “Barcelona decide against Etta Eyong move”. The outlet explains: “The Blaugrana appear to be easing away from a move for him this summer, though. A star addition up front has become Barcelona’s priority rather than a player that could develop into the number nine they need to replace Robert Lewandowski. “As such, Etta Eyong is no longer on their agenda as things stand, fitting into the latter category.” Barca out, Premier League rivals left to battle With Barcelona stepping aside, the path to Eyong suddenly looks clearer for United. However, the race is far from straightforward. Arsenal are also said to be weighing up a move for the striker, meaning United must outmanoeuvre their Premier League rivals to secure his signature. For the Old Trafford faithful, the hope is that INEOS can persuade Eyong to choose Manchester as his next destination. Compatriot Bryan Mbeumo could play a role in convincing him to join the project at M16. Featured image Pedro Salado via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Daniel Onguko Dan is a writer with The Peoples Person, an avid Manchester United fan whose passion for the Red Devils evolved into writing about them. He was introduced to United back in 2008, and his love for the club has continued to grow ever since. Like every other United fan, he believes the club will soon return to its rightful place and strives to reflect that belief in his writing. While he has also written about other Premier League sides, including Arsenal for Just Arsenal and The Arsenal Analysis Blogspot, Dan lives and breathes Manchester United.