United star would like a move to Atletico Madrid but “is expected to stay” at Old Trafford – report

Owing to PSR concerns, INEOS took the desperate call to put up academy wonderkids like Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo up for sale this January.

Chelsea had their eyes on both stars while Napoli emerged as frontrunners for the Argentine who initially had no intention of jumping ship midway into the season.

But since the Manchester derby snub, the 20-year-old feels he does not fit in with what Ruben Amorim is trying to build and is now more open to the idea of departing in this window.

The Serie A giants have seen their formal bid of €50 million get rejected with the Red Devils holding out for €80 million. The Naples outfit are mulling over an improved offer of €55 million, which is also expected to fall short.

Chelsea, Napoli eyeing Garnacho

Their desperation is growing now that Karim Adeyemi has rejected their approach and it remains to be seen how much they are willing to increase their bid amount.

Interestingly, plenty of outlets had claimed the Argentina international wanted to remain in the Premier League should an exit materialise but as revealed by TBR Football, that does not seem to be the case any longer.

The report mentions that Garnacho loves United too much and if he does leave, he wants a return to Spain and Atletico Madrid, where he was at before joining the 20-time English league champions.

While a late Chelsea bid cannot be ruled out at this stage, as of now it seems the versatile winger is likely to remain at Old Trafford.

“Garnacho does love Manchester United as a club, but he still knows that, long-term, he does not fit in Amorim system. It is understood that Garnacho’s ideal option is to return to Spain and Atletico Madrid.

Garnacho wants to return to Spain

“And while Garnacho is expected to stay at Old Trafford, Chelsea can’t be ruled out still.”

Whether Atletico will want him back is a different proposition altogether considering the circumstances in which he left the club as a teenager.

United have made it clear to potential suitors that they will entertain offers for the No 17 for only two more days after which they will block all offers.

In case, the Argentina international leaves, Mathys Tel of Bayern Munich has been lined up as replacement. An exciting end to the January window awaits for the club.

Feature image Julian Finney via Getty Images

Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social