Manchester United are desperate for cash heading into the summer transfer window after missing out on European football, with captain Bruno Fernandes in high demand
Manchester United are set to make their first signing of a pivotal summer for Ruben Amorim’s flagging reign. But the defeat to Tottenham in the Europa League final and a 16th place finish in the top-flight means United will not be able to offer signings European football.
But regardless of those issues, their first deal is now within touching distance. On Tuesday, United triggered Matheus Cunha’s release clause with the Wolves star now set for a medical.
That deal will still get done despite the fact missing out on the Champions League and Europa League has left a huge hole in United’s accounts. That means that sales will almost certainly come this summer as the Red Devils scramble to comply with Profit and Sustainability rules.
One player whose future is now under threat is captain Bruno Fernandes. While United are keen to keep their influential skipper, their desperation for funds could well see him depart Old Trafford.
Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal have been heavily linked with a move for the midfielder, but are growing impatient. Meanwhile, flop Antony is also heading for the exit door and is pushing for a return to Real Betis.
That comes with United boss Ruben Amorim admitting that it may be difficult for him to make signings this summer if funds are not brought in. Here, Mirror Football rounds up all the latest Manchester United transfer news.
READ MORE: Sky Sports confirms major Premier League changes ahead of last day of seasonREAD MORE: Matheus Cunha’s parting gesture to two Wolves team-mates ahead of Man Utd transfer
Cunha set for medical
United have triggered Matheus Cunha’s £62.5million release clause with the Wolves star now set for a medical. The Red Devils failed with an audacious opening offer, but have agreed to the terms set out by the Midlands side.
Personal terms had already been agreed and the Brazilian is now closing in on a move to Old Trafford. Cunha starred in Wolves’ successful battle to beat the drop this season.
According to The Athletic, United requested to pay Cunha’s release clause over five years rather than the required two. Wolves resisted that approach though and stood firm, formally rejecting that opening offer.
After that rejection, United decided to meet the terms, with an announcement now expected sooner rather than later.
Impatient Hilal hand Fernandes ‘final offer’
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has been sent a ‘final offer’ with Al-Hilal growing impatient with the midfielder. Hilal have been heavily linked with a move for the Portugal international.
The Saudi Pro League side are keen to make a blockbuster signing ahead of the Club World Cup. Having held extensive talks with Fernandes’ representatives, the Daily Mail report that Hilal have given him a final ‘take it or leave it’ offer.
He has 72 hours to reply, with the Saudi side prepared to quadruple his salary with a package worth £700,000 per week. If he agrees to move, Hilal with then submit an offer to United worth around £100million.
Amorim’s pessimistic prediction
Ruben Amorim has conceded it will be difficult for Manchester United to make new signings this summer. The embattled manager believes that financial fair play rules may well restrict their business.
“We have a plan that is to bring [in] some new players. Our big plan is to improve the team we have and improve the academy as that is our future, as it was in past. It’s not going to change so much,” he said on Tuesday.
“We have financial fair play rules, so we are not allowed to do so much this summer. The important thing is to stick together. We are going to struggle and it is not going to be everything right away. I have a feeling the team is improving and that is the most important thing.”
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