Alejandro Garnacho is expected to leave Manchester United this summer.
His falling-out with coach Ruben Amorim after the Europa League final defeat saw him lose his spot in the team, with the Portuguese tactician allegedly telling him to “pray he finds a club to sign him.”
United expected to cash in on him, but with just weeks to go before the transfer deadline, no club has been bold enough to approach them with a bid.
Garnacho’s exit is proving tricky.
Garnacho has not made his path out of Old Trafford any easier, reportedly favouring one destination, Stamford Bridge, while snubbing other routes.
Although claims suggest he has held talks with the Blues and potentially agreed personal terms, the world champions are yet to approach United with a formal offer.
When Chelsea plan to make their move remains the West London side’s best-kept secret, but Sky Sports‘ Kaveh Solhekol believes he knows what could finally nudge them into action.
“Chelsea will only sign Alejandro Garnacho and Xavi Simons if at least two first-team forwards leave before the window closes,” revealed Solhekol.
“Christopher Nkunku, Nicolas Jackson and Tyrique George could all move, and incomings are exit-dependent.
“If all three players leave, Chelsea would be in a strong position to sign both Garnacho and Simons.
“If only one of those three players leaves, Chelsea may sign just one more forward—or none at all.
“Chelsea value Garnacho at about £30m.”
Hope of sales
Fortunately for United, Bayern Munich are pushing to sign Christopher Nkunku.
Nicolas Jackson is also likely to leave, as he weighs his options, with the signings of Joao Pedro and Liam Delap expected to reduce his game time drastically.
The ex-Villarreal forward missed Chelsea’s last two pre-season games, suggesting he is pushing for an exit.
Transfer fee gap remains
Even if exits pave the way for a Garnacho swoop, Chelsea’s valuation of the South American remains a concern.
It is far below the £40 million United are demanding.
While Garnacho needs to leave, United may feel no urgency to accept a cut-price deal.
They could comfortably rebuff any cheeky bid.
With a high ceiling, raw talent, Premier League experience, and a 21-goal contribution last season, even £40 million feels like a bargain.
Still, with so much movement expected before Chelsea makes their move, it is a case of wait and see.
Featured image Stephen Pond via Getty Images
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Daniel Onguko
Since Dan was introduced to Manchester United in 2008, he has lived and breathed the club. What started as being a fan evolved into writing about United, allowing him to feel part of their journey. Hopefully, his work might even help rekindle your love for the kings of Manchester.
