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Exclusive: Wes Brown blasts INEOS’ reckless strategy to rescue United’s finances

    exclusive:-wes-brown-blasts-ineos’-reckless-strategy-to-rescue-united’s-finances
    Exclusive: Wes Brown blasts INEOS’ reckless strategy to rescue United’s finances

    Former Manchester United defender Wes Brown has rejected the idea the club has to sell its academy stars as the Reds are “not that far down the line” in terms of financial troubles.

    The acute pressure of the Premier League’s profits and sustainability rules (PSR) has reportedly led to Old Trafford officials being “reluctantly” open to the sale Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo – two players considered “untouchables” last season.

    Academy graduates constitute a treasure trove from a PSR perspective as there is no transfer fee to offset against their potential sale. This means the money generated counts as ‘pure profit’ on a club’s balance sheet.

    And it’s this reasoning why United sanctioned the departure of Scott McTominay – who entered the club’s youth system as a five-year-old – in the summer, despite Erik ten Hag’s objection to his sale. The £25.7 million fee Napoli agreed to pay for the Scottish international enabled United to sign Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Manuel Ugarte as a replacement for nearly twice the price.

    Ruben Amorim, who replaced Ten Hag in November, has seen his new side struggle to adapt to the 3-4-3 system which helped him dominate Portuguese football with Sporting CP.

    Reinforcements are needed in the wing-back, centre-forward and central midfield areas to help the 39-year-old coach, though United have agreed a deal worth an initial £25 million move for Lecce defender Patrick Dorgu to solve the first position.

    This outlay means finances will be even tighter heading into the final week of the January window, however. And the obvious issue of a need for investment in the middle of the pitch and, in particular, the forward line remains.

    But Brown, who enjoyed a successful 15-year career at Old Trafford during the club’s most successful period, refutes the idea it should be a talent like Garnacho or Mainoo who funds this.

    Both youngsters have been linked with moves to Premier League rival Chelsea, while Garnacho is also attracting attention from Serie A leaders Napoli. The Italian side are in the hunt for a replacement for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia who swapped Italy for France to join Paris Saint-Germain in a 70 million move earlier this month.

    However, speaking in an exclusive interview with The Peoples Person, courtesy of NewBettingSites.uk, Brown said he cannot envision United sanctioning either player’s departure, especially to a direct rival: “Listen, I can’t see it happening.”

    The former defender contends it would be a “big disappointment” if Garnacho was sold to Chelsea after the 20-year-old had regained his place in the United first-team after being dropped by Amorim for the Manchester Derby in December.

    “[Garnacho] is a player the manager had to have word with when he first came in, but obviously they have got their differences sorted out now. He’s started the last two, played very well in the first one after coming back in, and showing his old self a little bit,” Brown states.

    The 45-year-old believes the number of first-team opportunities being afforded to Garnacho over the past twelve months mean the Argentinian international should not be looking to leave for his own personal development. “He’s in the team, it’s not like he’s playing on a regular basis. So I just can’t see that happening.”

    “Do Chelsea even need another winger?”, Brown observes in a half satirical, half-serious tone – a question Garnacho should ponder himself before considering a switch to Stamford Bridge, given the stacked nature of the Blues’ forward line.

    “You don’t want to sell your best players to rivals. I heard [rumours of] Kobbie to Chelsea? Just no, I can’t see it.”

    Brown concedes “you could understand” a sale of either youngster “if it 100% had to be done”, but the 2008 Champions League winner is confident United have not reached this point: “I don’t think we’re that far down the line.”

    United fans will be hoping their former star’s assessment of the situation at Old Trafford holds true as the prospect of either Garnacho or Mainoo switching a red shirt for a blue one would be gut-wrenching for a club which prides itself on its academy stars.

    Featured image by Gareth Copley via Getty Images

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    Darragh is a writer for The Peoples Person who spent three years as a history graduate slowly realising football was by far the most interesting thing to write about.

    “The boy wants United”: Record-breaking forward singles out Old Trafford as his preferred destination – report

      “the-boy-wants-united”:-record-breaking-forward-singles-out-old-trafford-as-his-preferred-destination-–-report
      “The boy wants United”: Record-breaking forward singles out Old Trafford as his preferred destination – report

      Bayern Munich teenage forward Mathys Tel has reportedly decided that he wants to join Manchester United ahead of any other possible transfer destinations.

      Yesterday, Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Tel wants to leave Bayern in search of regular first-team minutes elsewhere.

      So far this season, the Sarcelles-born footballer has managed just 282 minutes of action across the Bundesliga and the Champions League. He has registered one assist in that period.

      It was stated that United are interested in signing Tel before transfer deadline day on February 3, especially if either Marcus Rashford or Alejandro Garnacho depart Old Trafford.

      In addition to United, Chelsea and Arsenal have also been mentioned to be eyeing Tel. However, the 19-year-old is thought to be hesitant to sign for Chelsea due to the extensive list of attackers Enzo Maresca currently has at his disposal.

      Arsenal want a loan with an option to buy for the two-footed star.

      It’s understood that Tottenham Hotspur have also joined the race for Tel but according to journalist Paul O Keefe, the Frenchman has singled out United as his preferred transfer destination.

      O Keefe, who is reliable when it comes to Spurs news, wrote on X, “The boy [Tel] wants Man Utd. Let’s see how Bayern play that.”

      The boy wants Man Utd. Let’s see how Bayern play that.

      — Paul O Keefe (@pokeefe1) January 29, 2025

      It remains to be seen whether Bayern are open to sanctioning a loan exit or they only want a permanent sale.

      Transfermarkt value Tel at €30m – a decent sum for someone with immense potential, loads of talent and eager to prove himself at the top level.

      Tel made history for the Bavarian giants, becoming the youngest goalscorer in their history after he opened his goalscoring account at just 17 years and 126 days old.

      Meanwhile, United are back in action on Thursday when they face FCSB in the Europa League.

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      Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!

      United “interested” in sensational move for Mathys Tel but only on loan – David Ornstein

        united-“interested”-in-sensational-move-for-mathys-tel-but-only-on-loan-–-david-ornstein
        United “interested” in sensational move for Mathys Tel but only on loan – David Ornstein

        Manchester United are “interested” in signing Mathys Tel but only if Bayern Munich “sanction [a] loan departure” for the 19-year-old French forward, David Ornstein reveals.

        Clubs across Europe were put on red-alert this week when it was revealed Tel was pushing for a departure from the Allianz Arena after growing increasingly frustrated with a lack of first-team opportunities at Bayern.

        The forward, considered one of the game’s outstanding young attacking prospects, joined the German giant in a £25 million move from Rennes when he was just 17.

        United hold a long-term interest in Tel having made enquiries over his potential availability last year. These were refuted with the Frenchman content with his place in the squad under Thomas Tuchel.

        This has changed, however, following the appointment of Vincent Kompany – formerly of Burnley – as manager in Bavaria. The Belgian coach has rarely used Tel this season, leaving the 19-year-old on the bench in the last three matches.

        And it’s this exclusion which Fabrizio Romano contends has driven Tel’s decision to push for an exit before the end of the January transfer window. Reports have linked the French starlet with a sensational switch to Old Trafford with Ruben Amorim keen to buttress his misfiring forward line.

        And while Ornstein reveals United are “interested in a potential move” for Tel, having established “contact” with his representatives, the Red Devils would only be able to sanction a loan deal for the 19-year-old.

        Ornstein writes, “Manchester United are interested in a potential move for Bayern Munich forward Mathys Tel, should the 19-year-old be made available to leave on loan before the transfer window closes.

        “The Premier League club are not actively progressing the situation while they focus on departures, but signing Tel on a temporary basis carries appeal at Old Trafford. Contact so far has been with Tel’s representatives, rather than with Bayern.”

        🚨 Man Utd interested in signing Mathys Tel if Bayern Munich sanction loan departure before deadline. #MUFC not progressing move yet as prioritising exits + contact with 19yo’s camp rather than #FCBayern – but temporary switch carries appeal @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/JFe0wdJgSJ

        — David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) January 29, 2025

        Tweet: “Man Utd interested in signing Mathys Tel if Bayern Munich sanction loan departure before deadline. #MUFC not progressing move yet as prioritising exits + contact with 19yo’s camp rather than #FCBayern – but temporary switch carries appeal @TheAthleticFC.”

        It remains to be seen whether Bayern would be open to a loan deal if negotiations are initiated between the two clubs, but a report relayed by The Peoples Person reveals Tel “favours” a move to Old Trafford – “the boys wants United,” a source reveals.

        If an exit can be agreed for Marcus Rashford, with Barcelona continuing to push to sign the 27-year-old forward despite the economic difficulties involved, then Tel would constitute the perfect replacement.

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        Darragh is a writer for The Peoples Person who spent three years as a history graduate slowly realising football was by far the most interesting thing to write about.

        Additional recovery sessions helping “laid back and mature” United starlet get to grips with life in the PL – report

          additional-recovery-sessions-helping-“laid-back-and-mature”-united-starlet-get-to-grips-with-life-in-the-pl-–-report
          Additional recovery sessions helping “laid back and mature” United starlet get to grips with life in the PL – report

          Manchester United’s “laid back and mature” young defender Leny Yoro is finally starting to build up a head of steam at the club, following conversations with Raphael Varane and with the help of “mentor” Andre Onana.

          The 19-year-old’s start to life at Old Trafford has not been plain sailing, after a pre-season injury sustained in a match against Arsenal played in the United States left him sidelined until December.

          Incidentally, he played his first Premier League minutes against the Gunners as United were beaten 2-0 at the Emirates, but exacted his revenge with an ice-cold conversion in the FA Cup penalty shootout win at the same ground earlier this month.

          Sandwiched between these various Arsenal matches was a lot of hard work, both physical and mental, which The Manchester Evening News say impressed those around him.

          Following his injury Yoro worked closely with Australian first team physiotherapist Ibrahim Kerem, and the youngster used his rehab time “to increase his physical preparations” to play in the Premier League.

          And to this day the Frenchman works with an external masseur, putting in additional recovery session at home in the evenings or on days off.

          The MEN claim that “people at Carrington found that Yoro’s demeanour never changed during his four months away from the pitch”, showing an elite attitude from a teenager plucked from Ligue 1 for a hefty fee and plunged into the infamous Man United pressure cooker.

          United staff reportedly find Yoro “extremely laid back and mature”, and the report notes that “some of the club’s academy players regarded as high potential are older than Yoro.”

          The personal impact of Yoro’s switch cannot be understated – his parents and siblings have not moved to England, so he has bought himself a dog called Dougie to keep him company in his new home.

          And while at work, he has forged a strong bond with Kobbie Mainoo, who is the same age and spent rehabilitation time with Yoro after an injury in October. The report also notes that goalkeeper Andre Onana “has become a mentor, as a fellow French speaker.”

          But arguably the most influential French speaker in Yoro’s career is his “idol” Raphael Varane. Much has been made of the similarities between the two, as promising teenage defenders pursued by both Manchester United and Real Madrid.

          Back in 2011 Varane took the Spanish option, arriving at Old Trafford ten years later, but after careful deliberation with his hero and other former players, Yoro opted to join United at the first time of asking.

          The MEN paint a picture of a diligent and consummate professional, noting that the 19-year-old is “big on personal analysis” and “brushes up on his homework ahead of facing opposition forwards.”

          Little wonder, then, that manager Ruben Amorim called him a “special talent” before handing him his first United appearance.

          “You have to be careful in this first moment, because we didn’t have too many trainings together, he is training not alone, but with a small group of players.”

          He continued: “He is really fast, he is a modern defender and that is good when you want to press high and you leave a lot of strikers, especially in this league one against one, I think he can manage that.

          “He is very good with the ball, so I’m really excited. I have to be careful. We have to manage the load and the minutes in the beginning but I am really excited to see Leny Yoro play.”

          Feature image Michael Regan via Getty Images

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          Joe has spent more than half his life writing about football and all of it following United. As a child he told a doctor his name was ‘Paul Scholes’, but could never pick a pass like him no matter how much he tried.

          PL rivals eyeing blockbuster late raid on United for £70m midfield ace, would leave Amorim short of quality options – report

            pl-rivals-eyeing-blockbuster-late-raid-on-united-for-70m-midfield-ace,-would-leave-amorim-short-of-quality-options-–-report
            PL rivals eyeing blockbuster late raid on United for £70m midfield ace, would leave Amorim short of quality options – report

            Manchester United’s co-owners INEOS are grappling with PSR concerns which is why they are open to the prospect of moving on academy graduates as their sales would constitute pure profit.

            With Marcus Rashford publicly revealing his desire to try a new adventure, it seemed like he would be the one to make way this January.

            However, given his enormous wages and United’s asking price, it became apparent very quickly than a permanent exit was not possible in the winter which is why INEOS took the bold step to put both Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo up for
            sale.

            Chelsea expressed an interest in acquiring the United midfielder but soon moved on the Argentine. However, a concrete offer for Garnacho is yet to materialise with Napoli now leading the charge for the Argentina international.

            Chelsea still eyeing Mainoo

            As revealed by Teamtalk, the Blues have still not given up on Mainoo with Enzo Maresca reportedly eyeing a versatile midfielder capable of playing both as a defensive midfielder and further forward.

            The England international fits the bill with the Stamford Bridge side recently seeing Romeo Lavia sidelined with another injury.

            It would take an offer of £70 million for INEOS to consider a sale and Chelsea are likely to sign either of Mainoo or Garnacho and not both.

            “Chelsea are interested in signing a new midfielder before the transfer window closes and Manchester United star Kobbie Mainoo remains on their radar.

            “Sources have reiterated to TEAMtalk today (Wednesday) that Enzo Maresca’s side are still in the market for a new midfielder who can play centrally and pivot as a number six.

            United have set £70m price tag on Mainoo

            “Sources maintain that a bid of £70m would force Ruben Amorim’s side to consider selling Mainoo in the coming days and Chelsea are keeping close tabs on the 19-year-old’s situation.”

            Selling Mainoo would leave Amorim short in the middle of the park given Casemiro is not in his plans and Toby Collyer lacks experience.

            Plenty of former stars have called out INEOS for placing the Stockport-born star on the market and fans would be devastated should the Englishman leave to join a direct domestic rival.

            United are planning for either of Rashford or Garnacho’s departure as seen from their interest in Bayern Munich’s Mathys Tel and they do not have a midfield target should Mainoo leave.

            Feature image Glyn Kirk via Getty Images

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            Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25

            Liverpool redemption man, Man Utd hero lauded in every Prem club’s pleasant surprise in 2024/25

              liverpool-redemption-man,-man-utd-hero-lauded-in-every-prem-club’s-pleasant-surprise-in-2024/25
              Liverpool redemption man, Man Utd hero lauded in every Prem club’s pleasant surprise in 2024/25

              Every Premier League club has enjoyed the surprise emergence of at least one player and from Ryan Gravenberch at Liverpool to Amad Diallo at Manchester United, we have picked one pleasant surprise for all 20.

              Arsenal: Myles Lewis-Skelly
              Spare a thought for Jakub Kiwior, who has fallen behind another left-back in the pecking order. At least Oleksandr Zinchenko is a wanted man and Kieran Tierney will re-join Celtic at the end of the season.

              Riccardo Calafiori was signed in the summer but injuries have been a real problem, meaning Mikel Arteta has turned to Lewis-Skelly ahead of Zinchenko, Tierney and Kiwior. He has seamlessly slotted in as an inverted full-back, displaying incredible technical ability and defensive steel.

              Against Wolves on Saturday, Lewis-Skelly and fellow Hale End graduate Ethan Nwaneri became the first English Arsenal players aged 18 or under to start a league game together since 1998. Only six times have two English teenagers been named in a Gunners starting XI in the Premier League. The first time was Ray Parlour – who was apparently once 19 years old – and Ian Selley in 1992.

              MAILBOX: Is Arsenal conspiracy cult prompted by ‘antagonism and feeling of superiority’?

              Aston Villa: Youri Tielemans
              There were a few candidates at Villa. Jhon Duran and Boubacar Kamara have been fantastic but Youri Tielemans’ performances have taken us by surprise, considering he was moaning about being at Villa months after agreeing to sign for Villa. He has turned things around and is now one of Unai Emery’s most important players.

              The summer signing of Amadou Onana looked like shifting Tielemans back to the bench after plenty of game time in the second half of last season but the former Leicester City man has started all 31 Premier League and Champions League matches in 2024/25. Onana, meanwhile, has started 17 of 31, though he has had a couple of injuries.

              Tielemans probably goes down as Villa’s player of the season, as well as their pleasant surprise. He has been fantastic.

              Bournemouth: Justin Kluivert
              Congratulations to Andoni Iraola, who is officially the most ‘what a job he is doing down there, by the way’ manager in the Premier League. Every single Bournemouth player is exceeding expectations with the Cherries on a ludicrous 12-match unbeaten run, which includes a 5-0 win over high-flying Nottingham Forest, a 4-1 triumph at Newcastle to end their nine-match winning run, a 3-0 win away to Manchester United, a draw that should have been a win at Chelsea and a home victory over Tottenham.

              Son of Patrick, Justin Kluivert, has been a middling forward wherever he has played but has turned up this season and is a huge reason why Bournemouth are flying. He has a silly nine goal involvements in his last four matches, which includes a hat-trick at St James’ Park – his second Premier League treble this season. Nobody saw this coming and if you say you did, you are a liar.

              Before this season, Kluivert had seven goals in 32 Premier League matches but has 11 in 22 this campaign, helping propel Bournemouth into a very sustainable push for Europe.

              READ MORE: 427 reasons to start taking Bournemouth very, very seriously in Champions League hunt

              Brentford: Mikkel Damsgaard
              Damsgaard joined Brentford in 2022 with high expectations after his European Championship exploits a year earlier, but he was pretty pants…until now!

              The 24-year-old Danish international did not score in any of his first two seasons, drawing a blank in 49 consecutive matches before scoring his first in Our League on his 59th appearance. He had registered four assists in the previous 10 matches and his first goal was clearly coming. He now has 10 goal involvements in 23 matches and has been one of Brentford’s best players.

              Brighton: Carlos Baleba
              Brighton started very well under Fabian Hurzeler but have gone off the boil a smidgen. They only have two Premier League wins since beating Bournemouth away on November 23, which was incidentally the last time Iraola’s team lost.

              Baleba actually got sent off that day and in the Seagulls’ most recent win, he conceded a penalty. So, yeah… ignoring that, he has been pretty good this season. Performances against Manchester City and West Ham stand out, while he was one of his side’s best players in Saturday’s home defeat to Everton.

              Chelsea: Noni Madueke
              Chelsea were one of the more difficult teams to single out a player. We initially thought Enzo Fernandez but stepping things up as a £105million midfielder is hardly a pleasant surprise; it’s the bare f***ing minimum.

              Madueke was one of the players we thought Chelsea might sell in the summer but he has ended up being their most reliable and consistent performer, even if Enzo Maresca has been irked by his application.

              The 22-year-old earned his senior England debut in September and has 10 goal contributions in 21 league matches in 2024/25.

              Crystal Palace: Maxence Lacroix
              Whoever was tasked with replacing Joachim Andersen always had a massive job, but Lacroix has done very well. He came to the Premier League unknown by the majority and known only as a pace merchant on FIFA by the rest.

              Ignoring his conceded penalty against Brentford on Sunday, Lacroix has rarely put a foot wrong this term and has an impressive four last-man tackles, including one on his debut against Leicester City.

              We have been impressed and Crystal Palace fans have been too.

              Everton: Idrissa Gueye
              In David Moyes’ first three games back at Everton, Gueye has shone, especially against Tottenham, which saw him notch two assists.

              The Senegalese midfielder made a ridiculous eight tackles in the recent win at Brighton and has been rock-solid in defensive midfield for the Toffees.

              Fulham: Sasa Lukic
              Harry Wilson, Alex Iwobi and Raul Jimenez have all been brilliant for Fulham this season but Lukic deserves his flowers for what has been a very strong start.

              People feared for Fulham after they lost Joao Palhinha but thankfully for Marco Silva, Lukic was Right There.

              Ipswich Town: Cameron Burgess
              Having scored in the Championship, League One and League Two, we are rooting for a Burgess goal this season. Ipswich team-mates Sammie Szmodics and Jack Taylor joined an even more exclusive club this season having scored in the National League as well as the top four tiers.

              Burgess’ story is pretty remarkable; he played regularly in Ipswich’s League One and Championship promotion campaigns and was in League Two with Salford City five years ago. A decade ago he made four Championship appearances for Fulham and that looked like being the pinnacle of his career, but Burgess does not look out of place in the top flight and is out here picking up man of the match awards against Manchester United.

              With only 10 appearances in the Premier League this season, the ex-Oldham Athletic and Accrington Stanley loanee – who represents the Australian national team – should probably be playing more. He has done well with his limited minutes.

              Leicester City: Jamie Vardy
              Wilfred Ndidi has been a rare Leicester highlight this term but Vardy’s scoring record in 2024/25 has been the most pleasant surprise of all 20 pleasant surprises. The Leicester legend has seven goals and three assists in 21 appearances.

              Not signing a striker was still silly of Leicester but fair play to Vardy, who is still banging them in at the grand old age of 38.

              Liverpool: Ryan Gravenberch
              There is no contest for Gravenberch at Liverpool. The Dutch playmaker has been outstanding in front of the Reds defence, ensuring Arne Slot has no regrets about missing out on top summer target Martin Zubimendi. While the Real Sociedad favourite is a fantastic player, we are not sure he would have performed at the level Gravenberch has reached this season.

              He joined from Bayern Munich last summer with high expectations and was used sparingly under Jurgen Klopp but Gravenberch is thriving under Slot, averaging 52.39 successful passes, 1.71 interceptions, 69.10 touches and only 0.24 aerial duels lost per game.

              Manchester City: Mateo Kovacic
              In a squad full of under-performers, we have singled out Kovacic, who has been tasked with replacing the irreplaceable Ballon d’Or winner Rodri. He plays the No. 6 role differently to Rodri so Pep Guardiola’s system has understandably been altered as a result of the Spaniard’s season-ending ACL injury.

              Kovacic has done fairly well. He has hardly been outstanding but it would be a stretch to say he has been below average. How pleasant!

              Manchester United: Amad Diallo
              Despite our persistent amazement at Man United making a good signing in Noussair Mazraoui, it couldn’t be anyone other than Amad, could it? It’s funny how Diogo Dalot and Mazraoui have gone from being arguably Erik ten Hag’s best players and only consistent performers to possibly the Red Devils’ worst starters under Ruben Amorim. Playing wing-back is no picnic.

              Amad has defied expectations by blossoming into Man United’s best player this season, scoring nine goals, including a hat-trick to forge a comeback win over Southampton.

              READ MORE: Every Man Utd signing post-Sir Alex ranked: Alexis, Antony in bottom two, Amad 20th

              Newcastle United: Dan Burn
              Would you believe me if I said Dan Burn was my inspiration for this feature?

              He has put himself right back in the good books of Newcastle supporters with some very solid performances at left-back and centre-back. His last three performances have been pretty rubbish but over the course of 2024/25, Burn has been brilliant and undoubtedly exceeded expectations.

              Nottingham Forest: Matz Sels
              There are a bunch of options when it comes to Nottingham Forest. Selecting a goalkeeper who conceded five goals in his most recent game feels rogue but looking at the bigger picture, Sels has been brilliant.

              The former Newcastle shot-stopper has a division-high nine clean sheets this campaign and has firmly cemented himself as Nuno Espirito Santo’s No. 1. It only took Forest 200 goalkeeper signings to finally settle on one.

              Of course a few Forest players deserve an honourable mention. You’ve obviously got Chris Wood, then there is Ola Aina, Elliot Anderson, Nikola Milenkovic and Ryan Yates.

              Southampton: Paul Onuachu
              We doubt any Southampton player deserves this, yet we are going to talk about two. Young Tyler Dibling has been their best player and the only positive in a miserable season, but his emergence is not a surprise to those at St Mary’s, who are well aware of his potential.

              Perhaps a little bit lazily, Onuachu is our man because he is genuinely entertaining to watch. He’s Got A Decent Touch For A Big Man.

              READ MORE: Southampton next? The Premier League’s six worst-ever teams…

              Tottenham: Archie Gray
              There has been nothing pleasant about Spurs’ Premier League campaign. Dejan Kulusevski’s form hardly comes as a surprise but he has been Ange Postecoglou’s best player this season. Brennan Johnson had that great run of form after deleting social media, Dominic Solanke has done well after costing £65m and Pedro Porro is a very, very good right-back. Pleasant surprise, though? Hmm…

              It can only be Gray, can’t it? In the wise words of Tickers: ‘We knew he was good, but the maturity and versatility. He’s been f**king brilliant, really. Future England captain etc. You have to frame it as being the good thing to come out of catastrophe and that ideally he wouldn’t have had to prove himself in quite this way, but forged by fire etc. etc. etc. Genuinely absurd for an 18-year-old to not just cope but thrive in Spurs’ environment this season.’

              The algorithms do not like Gray but the algorithm does not recognise that has been playing centre-back, left-back and right-back as a scrawny teenager in the Premier League for the first time without looking out of his depth.

              West Ham: Aaron Wan-Bissaka
              Tomas Soucek rediscovering his Covid scoring touch has been most welcome but Wan-Bissaka deserves this.

              He has been very consistent at both right-back, left-back and right-wing-back, scoring twice and assisting once in 21 starts. The ex-Man United defender has also completed 37 take-ons, the same as Eberechi Eze and Mohamed Salah and the most for a defender in the Premier League with a completion rate of 52.9 per cent.

              Wolves: Matt Doherty
              Matheus Cunha has been Wolves’ best player by a country mile but we all knew that would be the case before a ball was kicked. Despite their poor Premier League standing, there are a couple of contenders.

              Doherty is our man having proven he is not finished as a Premier League footballer with a string of solid performances in defence for Wolves this campaign. He had a good game against Arsenal on Saturday and was the victim of Lewis-Skelly’s vile attack, while he also impressed in wins over Manchester United and Leicester.

              👉 More: Premier League player stats | Premier League tables | Premier League five-year net spend

              Man Utd receive ‘fresh approach’ for Rashford as Barcelona ‘work against the clock’ to sign him

                man-utd-receive-‘fresh-approach’-for-rashford-as-barcelona-‘work-against-the-clock’-to-sign-him
                Man Utd receive ‘fresh approach’ for Rashford as Barcelona ‘work against the clock’ to sign him

                Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli have made a new approach to sign Marcus Rashford from Man Utd before the transfer deadline, according to reports.

                Rashford has only appeared in one matchday squad since the Red Devils beat Viktoria Plzen 2-1 on December 12 after his shock omission in the Manchester Derby a few days later.

                The England international insisted he was ready for a “new challenge” shortly after the 2-1 win over Man City and he’s been linked with a number of clubs ever since.

                Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund, Monaco, Marseille and some Premier League sides have all been credited with interest but Rashford seems no closer to a transfer than he did at the beginning of the month.

                The Man Utd forward now risks being frozen out permanently if he remains with Ruben Amorim criticising him for his performances in training after the Red Devils beat Fulham 1-0 on Sunday.

                Barcelona are struggling to make room for Rashford with his high wages causing most potential suitors an issue and now GiveMeSport claims that Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli have made a ‘fresh approach’.

                The report claims:

                ‘GiveMeSport sources have revealed that Al-Ahli have made a fresh approach for Rashford, even though he has already told Saudi Arabian dealmakers that he doesn’t want to go to the Middle East.

                ‘The Saudi Pro League club are looking to take advantage of the fact that Barcelona are struggling to do a deal for the United forward, due to their financial situation – though Rashford’s preference remains a move to the La Liga giants.

                ‘Borussia Dortmund are also interested, and could make a move as they are in a strong position if they wish to proceed with a deal for the out-of-favour attacker. Barcelona don’t boast the go ahead from United in terms of club-to-club negotiations, but they have got Rashford’s blessing, meaning a deal could go through if they were to agree terms with the Red Devils.

                ‘There is a possibility that Rashford may simply stay at United, and he could find a way to move forward with Amorim, despite the Portuguese tactician’s words over the weekend that he would rather play goalkeeping coach Jorge Vital than Rashford, alongside Rashford admitting back in December that he would be open to a new challenge.

                ‘Al-Ahli are opportunistic, and wish to put a fresh approach on the table in case Rashford changes his mind, but the England international has not been wanting to move to Saudi Arabia.’

                MORE MAN UTD COVERAGE ON F365…
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                Reports in Spain are leaning towards a move to Barcelona with a headline reading ‘The signing that brings Rashford to Barca, negotiations underway’.

                They are referring to Besiktas’ interest in Ansu Fati with that transfer potentially paving the way for Rashford to seal a loan move to the Camp Nou.

                Barcelona are ‘still working against the clock’ to sign the Man Utd forward with Rashford ‘an express request from the German coach [Hansi Flick], who believes that his arrival would bring a leap in quality to the Blaugrana attack’.

                Fati’s ‘departure is the key to signing Rashford’ and the former Brighton loanee has ‘begun to seriously consider the possibility of leaving the club this winter, and Besiktas has appeared as his main destination’.

                The Turkish side ‘have put an offer on the table to secure his services, although the negotiations are not easy’ and Barcelona are ‘putting pressure on the deal to go through, since his departure would allow Rashford to arrive’.

                Serie A giants will need to submit improved offer for United wonderkid after latest transfer snub – report

                  serie-a-giants-will-need-to-submit-improved-offer-for-united-wonderkid-after-latest-transfer-snub-–-report
                  Serie A giants will need to submit improved offer for United wonderkid after latest transfer snub – report

                  Manchester United wonderkid Alejandro Garnacho was considered an unsellable asset not too long ago but Ruben Amorim’s arrival seems to have changed that perspective.

                  The Argentine, who had no intention of leaving the Red Devils in January, reportedly feels he does not fit in with the head coach’s system which is the reason behind his changed stance.

                  INEOS are also open to the departure of the 20-year-old due to rising fears about adhering to the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules with the sale of an academy graduate counting as pure profit.

                  Chelsea and Napoli were linked with a move for the Argentina international but the Blues seem to have moved on to other targets with the co-owners setting a higher price tag for domestic rivals.

                  Adeyemi pursuit over

                  The Serie A side were also looking at acquiring Karim Adeyemi of Borussia Dortmund as Garnacho’s alternative after seeing their €50 million bid get rejected.

                  INEOS were holding out for as much as €80 million with Antonio Conte’s team letting United officials know that they would not exceed the €55 million mark.

                  However, they could be forced to up their offer after seeing Adeyemi reject their advances in favour of staying at Dortmund for the rest of the season.

                  🚨🟡⚫️ Understand Karim Adeyemi’s current decision is to stay at Borussia Dortmund this month and he has now informed all clubs interested.

                  Despite Napoli proposals and also PL clubs keen, he’s now expected to continue at BVB. pic.twitter.com/VvOaZ7uIUD

                  — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 28, 2025

                  “Understand Karim Adeyemi’s current decision is to stay at Borussia Dortmund this month and he has now informed all clubs interested.

                  “Despite Napoli proposals and also PL clubs keen, he’s now expected to continue at BVB,” transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed on X (formerly Twitter).

                  Garnacho the only option now

                  The Naples outfit are sitting atop Serie A but need to replace Kvicha Kvaratshkhelia, who departed in this window for Paris Saint-Germain.

                  With the Dortmund raid off the table, they are likely to come back in for Garnacho with United open to his sale for only the next 48 hours after which they will block his exit.

                  Napoli will have to submit an improved bid with a gap of €10 million remaining between both clubs as per latest reports with United open to sale for €65 million . It remains to be seen if they go as high and whether Chelsea also return for the Argentine.

                  An exciting end to the January transfer window beckons for the 20-time English league champions with Mathys Tel earmarked as an option should Garnacho end up leaving.

                  Feature image Julian Finney via Getty Images

                  Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

                  Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25

                  Confirmed: Amorim picks his United squad for key Europa League tie as three English stars miss out

                    confirmed:-amorim-picks-his-united-squad-for-key-europa-league-tie-as-three-english-stars-miss-out
                    Confirmed: Amorim picks his United squad for key Europa League tie as three English stars miss out

                    Manchester United’s travelling squad for the match against FCSB has been confirmed with neither Luke Shaw nor Marcus Rashford included, despite both featuring in first-team training at Carrington today.

                    The Red Devils travel to Romania to play FCSB (formerly known as Steaua Bucharest) tomorrow night in the final round of the Europa League group phase.

                    Ruben Amorim’s side have already qualified for the knockouts as they are currently fourth in the new format league table, having yet to lose a game in the competition.

                    However, a win would confirm United’s place in the top eight, which gives automatic progression to the last-sixteen round, bypassing the first knockout stage.

                    And given Amorim has been desperate for as many training sessions with his new squad, and fewer games, the opportunity to miss a two-legged tie will be welcome to the Portuguese coach.

                    As such, he is expected to name a strong side tomorrow evening in the hope of killing the game off early and securing automatic qualification in the process.

                    Shaw, 29, and Rashford, 27, were both spotted in first-team training today, suggesting they may be included in the travelling squad. This was never a realistic prospect for Rashford though, given the ongoing issues with Amorim over the forward’s attitude and application.

                    However, there had been hope Shaw would return to provide a welcome boost in defence.

                    The England international has been limited to just three substitute appearances since Amorim’s arrival in November, having spent the first portion of the season injured. He then subsequently picked up another injury which has seen him absent from the first-team for nearly two months.

                    Shaw took part in the full session today but it’s been deemed premature for the left-back to travel to Romania in what essentially amounts to a rubber game of sorts, given United have already qualified for the knockout phase, despite the club evidently wanting to finish in the top eight.

                    Jonny Evans (muscular injury) and Mason Mount (thigh injury) continue to recover individually at the club’s training ground.

                    Mark Critchley (The Athletic) revealed the squad who will travel to Bucharest today, sans Shaw and Rashford.

                    #mufc travelling squad vs FCSB:
                    Bayindir, Heaton, Onana, Dalot, De Ligt, Lindelof, Maguire, Malacia, Martinez, Mazraoui, Yoro, Casemiro, Collyer, Eriksen, Fernandes, Mainoo, Ugarte, Amad, Garnacho, Hojlund, Zirkzee

                    — Mark Critchley (@mjcritchley) January 29, 2025

                    Tweet: “#mufc travelling squad vs FCSB: Bayindir, Heaton, Onana, Dalot, De Ligt, Lindelof, Maguire, Malacia, Martinez, Mazraoui, Yoro, Casemiro, Collyer, Eriksen, Fernandes, Mainoo, Ugarte, Amad, Garnacho, Hojlund, Zirkzee.”

                    Even without the experienced English pair, the squad selected by United should have more than enough to overcome their Romanian opponents.

                    Feature image Richard Pelham via Getty Images

                    Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

                    Darragh is a writer for The Peoples Person who spent three years as a history graduate slowly realising football was by far the most interesting thing to write about.

                    “Opportunistic” Saudi club make “fresh approach” to sign troubled United star ahead of deadline day – report

                      “opportunistic”-saudi-club-make-“fresh-approach”-to-sign-troubled-united-star-ahead-of-deadline-day-–-report
                      “Opportunistic” Saudi club make “fresh approach” to sign troubled United star ahead of deadline day – report

                      Saudi Pro League outfit Al Ahli have reportedly made a fresh move for exiled Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford.

                      Rashford’s future has remained uncertain this month, having not featured in the club’s last 11 matches across all competitions.

                      After the 2-1 win over Fulham on Sunday, Ruben Amorim told reporters that he’d rather play United’s 63-year-old goalkeeping coach than Rashford.

                      In a subsequent interview, Amorim suggested that Rashford had crossed “certain red lines” and this is why he’s currently not being selected. A report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that Amorim and Rashford are not on speaking terms, with their relationship broken almost to the point of no repair.

                      A number of clubs including Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund, AC Milan, Juventus and Napoli have all been linked with a loan swoop for Rashford but the finances involved are hindering a deal from getting over the line.

                      Earlier this month, it was stated that Rashford rejected multiple lucrative offers from the Saudi Pro League as he wants to remain in Europe.

                      Now, Ben Jacobs via GIVEMESPORT, has revealed that Al Ahli are prepared to test the waters again ahead of transfer deadline day on February 3.

                      “GIVEMESPORT sources have revealed that Al-Ahli have made a fresh approach for Rashford, even though he has already told Saudi Arabian dealmakers that he doesn’t want to go to the Middle East.”

                      “The Saudi Pro League club are looking to take advantage of the fact that Barcelona are struggling to do a deal for the United forward, due to their financial situation – though Rashford’s preference remains a move to the La Liga giants.”

                      “Borussia Dortmund are also interested, and could make a move as they are in a strong position if they wish to proceed with a deal for the out-of-favour attacker.”

                      “Al-Ahli are opportunistic, and wish to put a fresh approach on the table in case Rashford changes his mind, but the England international has not been wanting to move to Saudi Arabia.”

                      The report adds that there is a chance Rashford stays at Old Trafford, meaning he’d have to find a way to co-exist with Amorim.

                      United are back in action on Thursday when they face FCSB in the Europa League.

                      Rashford trained with his teammates ahead of the tie and it will be interesting to see whether Amorim reinstates him or continues to leave him out of the matchday squad.

                      Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

                      Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!

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