Southgate decision key to United's success in Sancho transfer negotations - report

Jadon Sancho’s mindset was a deciding factor in negotiations to bring him to Manchester United and there ‘would have been a problem’ had he been required to return to Borussia Dortmund for pre-season training, according to a new report.

The Athletic claims that ‘He had no intention of returning to Dortmund’ and that ‘there was a feeling that he and his camp had conducted themselves faultlessly throughout the process this year and last, so now it was Dortmund’s turn to reciprocate.’

The outlet also claims that England manager Gareth Southgate’s benching of the 21-year-old for the group stages of Euro 2020 strengthened United’s side of negotiations considerably:

‘“Frankly not to our disadvantage,” is how one United source described Sancho’s place on the England bench,’ the report claims.

‘Had Sancho starred at the Euros, Dortmund could have hardened on an initial demand for €100 million and put pressure on United to get the deal done on more favourable terms.’

In fact, the report suggests that having got Sancho for some £30 million less than last year’s asking price, United’s negotiators feel they have been proven right in waiting a year.

Another element in negotiations was the presence of outgoing executive vice chairman, Ed Woodward, The Athletic claims.

‘Woodward also has a prior relationship with Watzke from European Club Association functions, so while Dortmund directors may harbour ill-feeling over [the European Super League], it would have done them no good to allow any grudges to affect talks over Sancho.

‘Woodward and Watzke were the chief points of contact, mainly exchanging WhatsApp messages and occasionally placing telephone calls as prospective numbers were sent back and forth.

‘That was different to last year, when negotiations ran through Sancho’s agent Emeka Obasi and independent intermediary Marco Lichtsteiner.’

The Athletic also confirms in the article that it remains unclear whether there are bonus payments and add-ons included in the deal.

‘Some in Germany claim there are add-ons worth €15 million, with United liable for another €5 million if United win the Premier League, €5 million if the Champions League arrives at Old Trafford, and €1 million per occasion Solskjaer’s side qualify for Europe’s elite club competition, capped at €5 million,’ they report.

‘But multiple sources state there are no add-ons.’

When Sancho finally does put pen to paper on the deal, it will bring to a close a saga that has been rumbling on since 2019, when, the report says, United decided that ‘the approach was too complex.. and instead bolstered Solskjaer’s wing options with Dan James.’

The post The Athletic reveals details of Jadon Sancho’s Man United deal first appeared on Man United Transfer News & Gossip | The Peoples Person.

United identify backup option for Cavani, 24yo Premier League star will cost £50m: report

Manchester United reportedly want to make a bid for Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin this summer.

The 24-year-old enjoyed a fine 2020-21 season with the Toffees, scoring a total of 21 goals in 39 games across all competitions.

Man United, having completed a deal to sign Jadon Sancho this week, are now expected to turn their attention towards adding a defender and striker to their roster.

According to The Sun, United are said to have identified Calvert-Lewin as a target for this window.

The report also claims that Arsenal are interested, along with Real Madrid, whose new manager, Carlo Ancelotti, brought the best out of Calvert-Lewin at Goodison Park last season.

As always, this story must be viewed with suspicion. The Madrid link is borne out of nothing else other than Ancelotti now being back at the Bernabeu.

And United’s involvement in this story, you suspect, comes only from the fact that they do, without doubt, need a No.9 before this window shuts.

Calvert-Lewin, who is part of England’s Euro 2020 squad this summer, is said to be valued at around £50m by Everton.

The Merseyside club appear to be in a spot of bother this summer following the strange arrival of former Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez.

It is said that, along with the 13 Everton players already released as free agents this summer, some key figures from the Goodison dressing room are on their way out.

James Rodriquez is almost certain to head elsewhere, while star forward Richarlison has been linked with a move away as well.

Following such an excellent previous campaign, Calvert-Lewin may well see where the wind is blowing at Everton and decide to jump ship too. And who knows? Maybe United will indeed come knocking.

The post Manchester United interested in signing Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin first appeared on Man United Transfer News & Gossip | The Peoples Person.

United academy star set for Europa League odyssey after impressive campaign

Manchester United’s Reece Devine is moving on a season-long loan to St. Johnstone.

This comes after the latest drive to send some of Man United’s academy stars on loan to get first-team experience and for Devine, there is no better option than moving to an established Sccottish Premiership side.

Devine, who plays as a left-back with the occasional appearances at the centre of defence, joined the Red Devils in 2018 on a free transfer from Manchester City’s Under-18’s.

In the last campaign, he featured for United’s U23s where he appeared 23 times and assisted three goals.

In the upcoming season, a number of academy players will be looking for loan moves to try and prove to the academy staff as well as the first-team coaches that they are ready to move up to the United squad full-time.

Devine will be moving to Scotland where he won’t only be playing in the Scottish league and domestic cups but also in European football, as St. Johnstone have made it to the third qualifying rounds of the Europa League.

Callum Davidson, who manages Devine’s new club for the season, expressed his delight at securing such a good young player.

“With his background at Man United I would have no qualms about playing Reece right now,” Davidson said.

“I really like the way he plays and I’m delighted to get him.

“He is full of energy and likes to get forward. He is a hungry young player.

“Reece will be competing with Callum Booth, who was outstanding for us towards the end of the season.”

The move is subject to international clearance and will be Devine’s first temporary move away from the club.

United fans who follow the youngster will be pleased with the move as St. Johnstone’s fixture congestion might mean we could see the player feature prominently throughout the season.

The post Manchester United’s academy star Reece Devine moves on loan to St Johnstone first appeared on Man United Transfer News & Gossip | The Peoples Person.

Man United announce new one-year deal for experienced midfield pass master

Juan Mata has agreed a new one-year contract with Manchester United, the club has announced.

There had been speculation as to whether the Spaniard would leave the club after his previous contract expired two days ago.

Reports had linked him with a return to his previous club, Valencia, and to FC Barcelona after United’s new contract offer cut his salary from £170,000 to £100,000 per week.

Whether those figures are correct and/or whether United have made any improved offer since is yet to be confirmed.

Despite playing only 18 games and 891 minutes of football for United last season, Mata’s presence at the club is seen as important off the pitch as on. He is known to be an excellent mentor for some of the younger players and a popular figure in the dressing room.

It has also been reported recently that United are grooming the Spain international for a role in their sports management team, as a potential future director of football or similar.

‘Manchester United is delighted to announce Juan Mata has agreed a one-year contract, keeping him at Old Trafford until June 2022,’ the club announced on its official website.

‘The 33-year-old completed a transfer from Premier League rivals Chelsea in January 2014 and has since made 273 appearances as a Red, scoring 51 goals in the process.

‘His impressive tally of strikes includes a memorable brace against Liverpool at Anfield in 2015 and an all-important equaliser in the victorious 2016 Emirates FA Cup final versus Crystal Palace.’

While some fans believed it was time to cut ties, others have reacted positively to the news.

‘I’m happy with this. We’ve got plans for him to go into coaching when he retires, so next year as well as remaining a useful squad player he can take his coaching badges,’ said one fan on Twitter.

‘Also he’s highly respected and great with our youngsters which is what we need.’

Tbh I'm happy with this. I mean we've got plans for him to go into coaching when he retires so next year aswell as remaining a useful.squad player he can take his coaching badges. Also he's highly respected & great with our youngsters which is what we need.

— Chris Silvester (@ChrisSilveste14) July 2, 2021

‘The football world is not black and white,’ said another.

‘He brings a lot more to the club than what happens on the pitch. And he can still play.’

Because the football world isnt black and White. He brings a lot more to the club than what happens on the pitch. And he can still play

— Kenneth Stoknes (@KStoknes88) July 2, 2021

The post Juan Mata given new one-year contract by Man United first appeared on Man United Transfer News & Gossip | The Peoples Person.

'We're not happy': Dortmund CEO expresses his upset about United's Sancho deal

Borussia Dortmund has recently announced that they are not happy with the transfer fee they have had to accept in Manchester United’s deal to sign Jadon Sancho.

On Thursday, the two clubs announced that Sancho will join United pending medicals and the agreement of contractual terms, which will be completed once the player finishes the European Championships.

Man United will pay the German club £73m which means cross-city rivals Manchester City will receive £9.5m due to a sell-on clause.

In a saga that has spanned across many seasons, there was bound to be a club that would come out of this situation unhappy after battling over the hefty price tag and negotiations.

That club, being Dortmund, is said by the Mirror to be very unhappy with the transfer outcome after losing out on approximately £30-35m on the asking price due to the current state of the market because of the Coronavirus pandemic.

Dortmund’s CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke expressed his feelings in a press conference about the deal, saying:

“We’re not happy about the money.”

“We’re sad that he’s gone.“

“At the end of the day, it was Jadon’s exemplary wish to leave, we would have preferred to keep him here.”

“But he behaved fantastic and gave everything for four years. He made us move forward significantly in the second half of the season.”

This time last summer, Dortmund’s asking price was around £103m but a deal never came about as United failed to meet the deadline. However, United will certainly be happy that a large chunk of the asking price was cut down.

It has been reported that Sancho expected a move away from Germany last season but talks didn’t progress after a deadline Dortmund set, so that they had time to make adequate pre-season preparations, had passed.

However, this summer, there was no deadline, and Dortmund had a gentleman’s agreement with the player that they would let him go if an acceptable fee came in from United. Watzke’s comments imply that it was due to that agreement that they felt compelled to accept an offer that fell short of what they had set as their minimum.

The fact that Sancho had one year less on his contract than the previous season also meant that Dortmund had less leverage in negotiations.

Fans reacted positively to the news of Sancho’s impending arrival, as reported on The Peoples Person yesterday. With United being the happier side, everybody including the staff behind the deal and fans of United will be excited for pre-season to kick in and see the Englishman in action for the first time.

The post Borussia Dortmund are unhappy with Manchester United’s deal to sign Jadon Sancho first appeared on Man United Transfer News & Gossip | The Peoples Person.

Huge news from Spain: Varane asks to leave Madrid, United given green light

Manchester United are reported to have been given permission by Real Madrid to enter into talks with Raphael Varane.

Spanish outlet Marca claims that Los Blancos have been told the French star has asked to leave and have accepted that he appears to be Old-Trafford bound.

The reports follow a frantic couple of days that first saw United announce the imminent signing of long-term target Jadon Sancho.

Reports linking United with a move for Varane have intensified over the last 48 hours.

The latest report states that Varane’s representatives will be allowed to seal a deal with the Old Trafford club before negotiating a fee between clubs.

‘The leaders of Real Madrid have been told very clearly. Raphael Varane does not want to continue in the team,’ Marca reports.

‘They will attend to his request to facilitate his departure.

‘That should be in exchange for a good amount of money, that could be around 50 million euros [£43m].

‘Moreover, los Blancos have authorized the centre-back’s agent to negotiate with Manchester United to close an agreement and then transfer it to the club to discuss the terms of the transfer with the English club.’

Previous reports had suggested that Los Merengues had rejected a €50 million [£43m] bid and were looking to recoup a fee of closer to €70m [£60m].

However, Marca states that a fee of €50 million would be enough to ensure that the centre-back makes the move from Spain to England.

The Peoples Person has covered the ever-changing landscape of the proposed deal and earlier today covered a story in AS stating that the negotiations have ‘exploded’.

It has even been suggested that United could agree to a Varane – Paul Pogba player-exchange.

However, the latest reports, from a media source known to have established links to the Spanish giants seem to suggest that a deal is even closer than previously expected.

If United can seal the transfer it would bring to an end almost a decade of interest in the centre-back.

Varane was a target under Sir Alex Ferguson back in 2011 and is believed to have been an on-off target for much of the last few seasons.

Should the transfer finally happen it would represent a major coup for the club, who are known to be in the market for a top-class partner for Harry Maguire.

The post Real Madrid give Raphael Varane permission to talk to Manchester United first appeared on Man United Transfer News & Gossip | The Peoples Person.

Italy's Manuel Locatelli delivers transfer blow to Arsenal

Manuel Locatelli, a star of the Italian national team at Euro 2020, has reportedly made Juventus is destination of choice, despite Arsenal seemingly leading the race for his signature – according to the Metro.

The Sassuolo midfielder is waiting for Juventus to come to terms on a deal, preferring to stay in Italy and make a title-charge with the Turin club, as well as Champions League football.

The report also names Borussia Dortmund as potential suitors for Manuel Locatelli, who has scored twice in the Euros on route the quarter-finals.

€40 million is said to the ‘magic number’ to trigger talks and Arsenal have made a bid and it’s been confirmed as such as being an ‘important’ offer by the Sassuolo chief executive, Giovanni Carnevali.

However, he has confirmed a meeting scheduled with Juventus, leaving Arsenal’s hopes hanging by a thread if there’s a desire from Locatelli, as is reported.

The post Italy’s Manuel Locatelli delivers transfer blow to Arsenal first appeared on All Arsenal News | The Latest Arsenal News, Transfer Rumours, Gossip & Team News | Arsenal FC.

'Just exploded': Sensational report from Spain on United's £38m bid for Raphael Varane

The story surrounding Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane’s potential move to Manchester United has ‘exploded’ in the last 24 hours, according to a sensational report from Spain.

Having secured a deal in principle for Borussia Dortmund’s Jadon Sancho, the Red Devils have turned their attention to strengthening the defence, with the World Cup winner top of their list of priorities.

With his contract set to expire in a year’s time and an impasse seemingly reached over his Real Madrid future, the 28-year-old could be sold even though los Blancos have already lost fellow centre-back and captain, Sergio Ramos.

But according to a report this morning from AS, United have been making significant approaches to both Real and to the player in an attempt to get the deal done.

‘The Varane case has just exploded,’ AS claims.

‘Due to the large sum of money that [United] have had to pay for Sancho, they cannot make an outlay greater than €45 million [£38m] for the French centre-back, a figure very far from the €70m [£60m] that Real Madrid intend to collect.

‘United already made first contact with the defender a few months ago to find out his predisposition to a transfer. And this existed.

‘Now is the time they will begin the negotiation with Madrid in which, as AS has learned, they will put the name of Pogba, who also ends his contract in 2022, on the table.’

This report certainly is an explosion. First, it gives us United’s alleged maximum offer for Varane – £38 million, which given the financial climate and the fact he only has a year left on his contract, whilst low does not seem that unreasonable.

Second, it speaks to Varane’s desire to join United, which will come as excellent news to United fans, who have heard conflicting reports on that issue. This same source, AS, have previously reported that the player wants to stay at the Bernabeu.

And third, and perhaps the biggest explosion of all, is that United are putting Paul Pogba on the table as a potential player exchange, as reported as possible by The Peoples Person recently. This could indicate the Red Devils’ own resignation to their own French star leaving the club.

However, United’s reported £68 million valuation of Pogba would mean that they would want a chunk of cash to go along with Varane if an exchange were to take place.

‘The negotiation between United and Real Madrid promises to be long and there may be surprises,’ AS continues.

‘The world champion still does not rule out staying with los Blancos.

‘A call from Ancelotti in which he tells him to stay because of the importance he has in the team could be enough for the central defender to rethink the situation, as long as Madrid could also make a small effort.’

But the report’s revelations do not end there.

AS goes on to claim that United are seeking to raise funds by selling Diogo Dalot, Jesse Lingard and Eric Bailly.

They also claim that ‘United have a transfer spending budget this summer of 150 million euros [£129m]’ – a figure that will please many United fans as rumours had been circulating that the budget was just £100 million.

The report concludes that los Merengues are willing to sell the Frenchman but the gap in valuations would have to be closed significantly. Whether that will happen, and whether an exchange deal with Pogba does grow wings, remains to be seen.

The post Raphael Varane deal to Man United ‘just exploded’, Paul Pogba in the mix first appeared on Man United Transfer News & Gossip | The Peoples Person.

Man Utd target next signing, scouts keeping close eye on 26yo superstar: report

Manchester United scouts watched Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot during France’s Euro 2020 defeat to Switzerland earlier this week, according to reports.

The 26-year-old, who joined Juventus on a free transfer in 2019, played in the unusual left wing-back position during his country’s shock defeat to the Swiss on Monday.

Man United have now switched their attention to other targets in the transfer window after completing the signing of Jadon Sancho from Borussia Dortmund.

According to The Daily Star, scouts from United were present to watch the Frenchman in Bucharest.

Rabiot has been a regular fixture for Juventus over the past year, making 47 appearances in all competitions, along with starting three of France’s four games at Euro 2020 this summer.

He spent seven years in the first team at Paris Saint-Germain, showing many signs of tantalising promise but drawing criticism for his attitude off the pitch.

Rabiot’s temperament has been a frequently mentioned issue in the past, but his sheer quality in the midfield area – the elegance and efficiency of his movement – has never come under question.

Indeed, the fact that both Didier Deschamps and Andrea Pirlo saw Rabiot as an integral part of their starting XIs last season points towards there being something special about the midfielder.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer clearly sees the same thing, although monitoring a player is by no means the same as pursuing him.

In United’s case, their focus is likely to sit somewhere else; Raphael Varane, who is nothing short of Real Madrid royalty, has grabbed the headlines in recent times, and if United sign one Frenchman this summer, almost all supporters will hope the defender is the one their club plumps for.

A high-quality central defender who can hold and move the ball with confidence, acting as perfect company for Harry Maguire, seems to be the main priority, now that Sancho is finally over the line.

However, if Rabiot is there for the taking – and with the hard-nosed Massimiliano Allegri back as Juventus manager, the temperamental 26-year-old’s place in the team may well be under threat – United would be foolish to not pass up the opportunity. Paul Pogba, after all, is not sticking around forever.

The post Manchester United scout Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot at Euro 2020 first appeared on Man United Transfer News & Gossip | The Peoples Person.

Future teller: Manchester United star predicts teammate to be best in the league

Following Luke Shaw‘s impressive display against Germany at the Euros, images have resurfaced of a special note Juan Mata left the full-back in December 2019.

Upon the release of Mata’s autobiography Suddenly A Footballer: My Story, the Spaniard penned personal messages to all of his teammates as he gifted them copies.

In the copy he sent to Shaw, Mata wrote “To my friend Luke, you can be the best left-back in the Premier League, believe it!”

Juan Mata's message to Luke Shaw in 2019 ❤️ pic.twitter.com/H0yPRoK9G4

— utdreport (@utdreport) June 30, 2021

The midfield maestro’s words of encouragement did not take long to take effect, as only a year later Shaw’s fantastic form has seen him named in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year, officially recognised as the best left-back in the league.

Starting with blistering form after the return from the COVID suspension in June 2020, Shaw has gone from strength to strength in an unrivalled resurgence under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

The left-back has recently took to the media to speak of former manager José Mourinho’s lack of belief in him but he managed to remain motivated by the support for him around the club, including Juan Mata.

Picking up Manchester United’s Players’ Player of the Year award to go with his inclusion in the league team of the year, Shaw has shown consistency and dominance both defending and attacking.

The plaudits are not only coming in the red of United though.

Currently starring for England at the Euros, Shaw has created five chances in the tournament, more than any other England player and played a key role in both of England’s goals against Germany.

To go along with his chance creation, Shaw’s composure on the ball has also seen him ranked fourth at the Euros in ball retention after the group stages.

An ability United have relied on to play out from the back often throughout the year, playing a key role in why United attack so heavily from the left.

At still only 25 years old Shaw has many years to come to build on his impressive year, and with his birthday coming the day after the Euros finals, the Englishman will be looking to add another trophy to his personal accolades for the season.

Perhaps looking to go further than just best left-back in the league but rather best left-back in the world.

The post Juan Mata predicted Luke Shaw to be best left-back in the league first appeared on Man United Transfer News & Gossip | The Peoples Person.

Arsenal scramble to save transfer after being outbid by Everton

Arsenal are now scrambling to save a transfer deal to sign centre-back Ben White from Brighton after reports emerged that Everton have launched a more lucrative bid.

A report in the Daily Mail claims that new Everton manager Rafa Benitez is pushing the club to clinch the signing of the England international.

Arsenal have had a bid of £42million plus £4million in add-ons rejected by the Seagulls last week, with £50m seemingly the number required to get talks progressing. Everton have apparently ramped up the competition by going in with a £50m plus £5m for Ben White.

This will be a huge test of Arsenal’s ambitions this summer, should Everton ‘gazump’ Arsenal with Ben White’s transfer, there will be no shortage of questions directed to Mikel Arteta and director Edu.

The post Arsenal scramble to save transfer after being outbid by Everton first appeared on All Arsenal News | The Latest Arsenal News, Transfer Rumours, Gossip & Team News | Arsenal FC.

Romano reveals what United's next priority is after Sancho signing

Manchester United are reportedly focussing on tying down Bruno Fernandes following the completion of Jadon Sancho‘s transfer from Borussia Dortmund.

The Portuguese magician only just arrived in January 2020 but such has been his impact that he’s being handed a new contract, not out of fear of a potential departure but rather to reward him.

Bruno has been United’s talisman ever since arriving, helping transform Ole Gunnar Solskjaer‘s team and potentially even saving his job.

The legendary Norwegian was under pressure to deliver a Champions League qualification spot and the former Sporting Lisbon man’s arrival helped spark a good run of form.

Anything good that the Red Devils did came through Bruno and until now he’s arguably still their main man.

Manchester United next priority will be Bruno Fernandes contract. After adding another top salary with Jadon Sancho, Man Utd board know they’ve to progress in discussions [already opened] with Bruno about a new agreement. 🔴 #MUFC

Updates expected this month.

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 1, 2021

The Peoples Person previously wrote a piece protecting Bruno after some harsh and frankly undeserved criticism on social media.

Under Solskjaer, Manchester United have been careful with their wage structure and are finally unwilling to break the rules for anyone.

This means there is a clear hierarchy in the wages and while Bruno will probably be handed a raise, it won’t break the bank either.

After all, United have learnt in the past that making an exception for one player financially will ruin the balance for everyone in the squad too.

This became massively apparent as recently as Alexis Sanchez’s arrival from Arsenal after he turned down Manchester City who refused to bend to his wage demands.

Nonetheless, the Red Devils won’t encounter a similar issue with Bruno and fans would agree he deserves to be rewarded.

The post Bruno Fernandes: Manchester United make key decision on his future first appeared on Man United Transfer News & Gossip | The Peoples Person.

Interest over: United's pursuit of French La Liga star dealt major blow

Manchester United are reported to have withdrawn their interest in Barcelona winger Ousmane Dembele.

The France international had been linked with a move to Old Trafford since the latter stages of the summer 2020 transfer window.

Despite reports at the time indicating that Dembele was interested in the move, nothing materialised and the player went on to enjoy a decent campaign in Catalonia.

However, rumours around a move have continued to linger and it was previously thought that the talented winger could represent a low-budget alternative to Borussia Dortmund’s Jadon Sancho.

The Mirror has reported claims from Spain that a new United bid was thought to be imminent, with the club having been prepared to pay €50m (£43m) to finally land the injury-plagued star.

A move for the former Rennes speedster would have seemed like a major leap of faith by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

The youngster was regarded as one of football’s brightest young talents when he swapped Dortmund for Barcelona in a mind-boggling £135m deal back in 2017.

However, he’s been cursed by troubling muscular injuries during his time at the Camp Nou and has rarely seemed to stay fit for long enough to showcase his undoubted ability.

Any likelihood of the move to Manchester being rekindled took a major blow when the mercurial wide-man limped out of the European Championships with a knee injury.

It has now been revealed that Dembele has undergone successful surgery that will leave him out of action for 4 months.

The news will be a blow to Barcelona. With Dembele entering the final year of his contract, he may well have been a likely candidate to help the cash-strapped club recoup some money through sales.

Confirmation today that Sancho will finally make his long-awaited move to United appears to have hammered the final nail into what remained of the Dembele deal.

It’s to be hoped that he can recover fully from this latest setback and rediscover the superb form that made him such a highly-prized asset in the first place.

The post Injury ends Manchester United’s pursuit of Barcelona’s Ousmane Dembele first appeared on Man United Transfer News & Gossip | The Peoples Person.

Pushing for a deal: Man United target next major transfer after Sancho deal

Manchester United are reportedly going to go all-in for Real Madrid’s Raphael Varane as they look to secure their next major transfer.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer‘s side just wrapped up a deal with Borussia Dortmund for Jadon Sancho and it looks like they won’t be resting on their laurels.

United are subtly trying to prepare for a title challenge next season as they target top players who are ready to make an impact immediately in the first team.

Solskjaer’s desire for a centre-back is well known and Varane would be everyone’s ideal first choice but many believed the interest wasn’t that serious.

However, reports have burst into life since Sancho signed and The Peoples Person has summed up the major ones below.

Mohamed Bouhafsi: "It seems like #mufc are now going all in for Raphaël Varane." #mulive [@RMCsport] pic.twitter.com/ACZlHbCMAj

— utdreport (@utdreport) July 1, 2021

🗞️ #mufc are pushing to do a deal for Raphael Varane, but there is no contract agreement and Varane intends to take his time to think about his future now that EURO 2020 is over. [@lequipe via @GFFN]

— UtdDistrict (@UtdDistrict) July 1, 2021

I am told that things are moving slowly in Varane’s discussions with #MUFC. Conversation is open and ongoing. Talks are simultaneously being held with PSG. There also appears to still be a possibility that Raphaël will stay at Real Madrid. All options are currently being explored

— Jonathan Shrager (@JonathanShrager) July 1, 2021

Money is not the sole or main motivation for Varane. It is about choosing which club between Real Madrid, Manchester United and PSG shows the most ambition, to match his own. If wages are comparable, the project which most excites Raphaël will prove the key factor in his decision

— Jonathan Shrager (@JonathanShrager) July 1, 2021

Det siste jeg hørte om Varane, er at United er forsiktige optimister. Klubben har hatt franskmannen øverst på ønskelista og prøver å signere ham. United har flere alternative navn i bakhånd dersom de ikke får kloa i Varane.

— Fredrik A. Filtvedt (@FAFiltvedt) July 1, 2021

The Tweet translates to: “The last thing I heard about Varane is that United are cautiously optimistic. The club has had the Frenchman at the top of the wish list and is trying to sign him. United have several alternative names in the background if they do not get a grip on Varane.”

According to The Independent, Manchester United are keen to move quickly for Varane after ‘extensive talks’ and he sees the club as his best option this summer.

According to The Times, Madrid’s current contract offer to him involves taking a pay cut and that is something he simply won’t accept.

It’s believed the club have lowered their £60m asking price and would accept £43m for Varane though that does not involved add ons.

The Peoples Person previously covered a piece on how fans feel about the interest in the World Cup winner and it’s safe to say they are delighted.

It looks like this could be another slow one for supporters but as long as the deal gets over the line, they won’t care too much.

United have the cards stacked in their favour for Varane’s signature and there is a real possibility a transfer could happen.

The post Raphael Varane update: All the latest Manchester United transfer news first appeared on Man United Transfer News & Gossip | The Peoples Person.

'Best partnership in the world': United fans excited by potentially huge transfer

Manchester United fans have probably gotten carried away with the potential transfer of Real Madrid’s Raphael Varane after multiple reports emerged claiming it was a possibility.

The club have only just officially announced the impending transfer of Borussia Dortmund’s Jadon Sancho, subject to a medical, and the news has wasted no time in reporting their next target.

Suddenly there were reports from various sources claiming United are hugely keen on Varane and will now make a real move for him.

It’s no secret Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is on the lookout for a centre-back but many felt the talented Frenchman was just using the club to secure a better deal for himself in Madrid.

Varane’s current contract runs out next summer and it’s a no-brainer to make a real effort to sign him.

https://twitter.com/ManUnitedMedia/status/1410643887677399050?s=20

Remember when we looked likely to sign Sean Longstaff, now we’ve acquired one of the best young talents in Sancho and looking to add one of the best CB’s itw in Varane…

— 🌊™️ (@RealistGlizzy) July 1, 2021

Varane’s one of those signings who you put in dream teams etc but never think will actually happen loool

— ‏ً (@utdcynical) July 1, 2021

I have gone from "Varane is definitely using us for getting a new contract at Madrid" to thinking about "Varane and Maguire are one hell of a CB partnership" real quick. pic.twitter.com/j8LH6fpS3N

— ً (@TheFergusonWay) July 1, 2021

Reports on Varane look very encouraging. Some very good sources saying that some progress has been made.

Let's see.

— The United Link 🏆 (@TheUnitedLink) July 1, 2021

Raphael Varane and Harry Maguire would be the best centre back partnership in the world. pic.twitter.com/XhQOw84a0N

— Alexei (@MUFC_redarmy99) July 1, 2021

The Peoples Person previously covered a report on how PSG have seemingly secured Sergio Ramos’ signature and how that means the Red Devils have a ‘clear’ run in their bid to sign Varane.

There are no obvious rivals for Solskjaer’s side in their efforts to sign the World Cup winner so the auction Madrid were hoping to start, probably won’t happen now.

If Manchester United play their cards right, they could secure Varane’s signature for relatively cheap too.

The post Raphael Varane: Manchester United fans get excited over potential transfer first appeared on Man United Transfer News & Gossip | The Peoples Person.

Missed Opportunity? Will United regret not chasing sensational midfielder?

Sassuolo’s midfield playmaker, Manuel Locatelli has had some exceptional performances at this summer’s European Championships for Italy, following on from a Serie A season of good form.

Now, according to The Mirror and transfer-guru, Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal have submitted a bid for his services.

Sassuolo CEO Carnevali to Sky Sport: “Arsenal have made an official bid for Locatelli. They’re pushing hard to sign Manuel and it’s an important bid… we will see.

Also Juventus want Locatelli and we’ve a special relationship with them. We’ve a new meeting scheduled with Juve”.

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 30, 2021

Fans from all over have been clamouring for their club to sign the 23 year-old, deep-midfielder, especially after he scored a brace in Italy’s group-game win versus Switzerland.

It has been reported in recent months that Manchester United are in the market for a defensive midfielder, as Nemanja Matic is coming towards the end of his career, and Locatelli, who excels in dictating the game from the base of midfield, has been mentioned.

Sassuolo’s valuation of around £34 million has also certainly garnered interest, with the likes of Declan Rice, who United have also been linked with, being valued by West Ham at £70 million and above.

But it seems now that United’s priority is Rennes’ 18 year-old, Eduardo Camavinga.

Camavinga is, of course, inexperienced at such a tender age, but has huge potential and in terms of style, lies in between Rice and Locatelli.

Locatelli tops the stats in forward passes, chance creation and long-balls, whereas Rice is slightly superior in defensive contribution and dribbling. But Camavinga, for his age, is impressive defensively while also being slightly better than Rice in forward passing and attacking third dribbles.

Per 90 minutes, Camavinga averages over four tackles per game, compared to Rice and Locatelli’s two.

With Arsenal now seemingly taking the lead in advancing for Locatelli, United may miss out on a talented, needed midfielder, and for a good price.

But, if the rumoured fee of around £40 million that Rennes would accept for Camavinga is true, then it may also be the case that United see more value in the potential of the young French box-to-box over the longer term, and certainly compared to the price-tag of Rice.

Real Madrid have been linked in the past with Camavinga, but with their reported financial difficulties, they may need to limit their spending this summer by reducing their list of targets.

The post Arsenal make advances for Manuel Locatelli – Will Manchester United regret it? first appeared on Man United Transfer News & Gossip | The Peoples Person.

Man United considering shock defensive signing after transfer breakdown

Earlier this summer, it was reported that Manchester United hold an interest in signing Atletico Madrid’s Kieran Trippier as a supporting right back option.

In finding a back-up right back, United will be hoping for a repeat of what developed last season on the other wing, where the signing of Alex Telles from Porto encouraged a Players’ Player of the Year Award winning season from Luke Shaw.

Now, it looks like United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is considering an alternative to Trippier in Rangers’ James Tavernier.

According to 90min.com, the Red Devils are among four Premier League sides interested in the 29 year-old who has blossomed playing in Scotland after an underwhelming start to his career.

Arsenal, Brighton, Norwich and Man United are the interested parties listed.

For Rangers last season, he created 16 assists in all competitions and achieved eight Man of the Match awards.

His experience and attacking bias would perhaps be the perfect foil for 23 year-old Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s defensive-leaning style.

Having a different option at right back would help United in games where they struggle to unlock defences or where they are pushing for a come-back.

Tavernier signed a new three-year contract for Rangers last April but given, like many clubs, the Scottish champions suffered financial losses due to the global pandemic, they may be tempted to accept a certain fee.

The interest in Tavernier, however, may also be a negotiation tactic to force Atletico Madrid to lower their valuation of England international Trippier.

In any case, having multiple transfer options is important.

For now though, after all but officially announcing the signing of winger Jadon Sancho, United’s priorities are at centre-back and in midifeld.

The post James Tavernier: Manchester United’s alternative to Kieran Trippier first appeared on Man United Transfer News & Gossip | The Peoples Person.

Man Utd given huge advantage in race to sign Raphael Varane

Manchester United’s chances of signing Real Madrid centre back Raphael Varane have been boosted considerably this afternoon after it was reported that Sergio Ramos has agreed a two-year deal with Paris st Germain.

Tier 1 reporter, RMC’s Mohamed Bouhafsi broke the news this afternoon on Twitter, also confirming that the player will have his medical in ‘the coming days’.

🚨 Info @rmcsport : Sergio #Ramos has agreed to sign a 2-year contract with #PSG – medical in the coming days.

— Mohamed Bouhafsi (@mohamedbouhafsi) July 1, 2021

The news was confirmed minutes later by transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, who tweeted ‘Sergio Ramos is set to join Paris Saint-Germain in the next days, as @mohamedbouhafsi
reported! He’s expected to undergo his medical in the next few days as new PSG player.’

Sergio Ramos is set to join Paris Saint-Germain in the next days, as @mohamedbouhafsi reported! He’s expected to undergo his medical in the next few days as new PSG player. 🔵🔴 #PSG #Ramos

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 1, 2021

The news does not necessarily mean that PSG are out of the race for Varane, but it certainly seems less likely.

The French side were alternately linked with each centre-back with no clear favourite as to which they would sign.

There were also conflicting reports about Varane’s preferred destination, with some reports claiming that he also favoured a PSG switch and others claiming that he wanted the challenge of playing in the Premier League.

With no other major clubs currently in the hunt for a centre back apart from Real Madrid themselves, this leaves the Varane situation almost certainly down to a straight choice between staying at Real or joining United.

Again, there have been conflicting reports about whether Real, having lost Ramos, have redoubled their efforts to keep the 28-year-old or whether they are keen to sell to raise funds for transfer targets such as Kylian Mbappe.

With Paul Pogba also holding out on a new deal at United, some sort of player exchange or part-exchange has also been mooted if the Red Devils cannot convince him to stay.

With a deal for Jadon Sancho already agreed in principle, the signs are good that United are closing in on another world class player with the transfer window less than a month old.

𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘀 𝘂𝗽.

We have agreed a deal in principle for the transfer of Jadon Sancho to United! 🔴⚪⚫#MUFC

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 1, 2021

The post Man United in pole for Raphael Varane as Sergio Ramos agrees Paris St Germain move first appeared on Man United Transfer News & Gossip | The Peoples Person.

Transfer frenzy: United close to finalising £43m deal for world class star

Manchester United are said to be close to agreeing a deal with Real Madrid for the transfer of Raphael Varane.

The report, from ESPN’s Mark Ogden, states that Varane is Ole Gunnar Solskjaer‘s primary defensive target and that the two clubs are in advanced talks over a fee.

United have been frequently linked with a swoop for a new centre-back this summer, with Sevilla’s Jules Kounde and Villareal’s Pau Torres also believed to be under consideration.

However, with Los Blancos said to be willing to negotiate a suitable fee for a player entering the final year of his contract, it seems that talks between the two clubs are advancing quickly.

United are said to believe that a fee of around €50m (£43m) would be enough to secure the Frenchman’s services.

The news comes hot on the heels of yesterday’s confirmation that an agreement between United and Borussia Dortmund has finally been reached for the exciting Jadon Sancho.

It was previously believed that United would face competition for Varane’s services from French giants Paris St-Germain.

However, The Peoples Person recently covered a report from The Independent that Varane saw Old Trafford as the perfect place to experience a new stage in his much-decorated career.

The Frenchman has a reputation for being one of the best centre-backs in world football and would be expected to form the kind of partnership with Harry Maguire that the club has lacked since the halcyon days of Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic.

At 28 years of age, he’s entering his prime years and with Real Madrid reported to be suffering from financial difficulties due to the global pandemic, this would appear to be the perfect time for them to cash in on a player whose value is shrinking.

The Spanish giants are believed to be ready to offload a group of players to fund a rebuild under new coach Carlo Ancelotti, with Varane likely to be one the first to leave.

If the latest reports are to believed, it could prompt something of a sea-change in how the Old Trafford club is perceived to approach transfer business.

After widespread criticism from fans and pundits about their lethargic approach to signings, snaring two in-demand stars within a short space of time would represent the kind of laser-guided focus on the side’s shortcomings that many have found sorely lacking in recent years.

The post Manchester United close in on Real Madrid’s Raphael Varane first appeared on Man United Transfer News & Gossip | The Peoples Person.

From France: Shocking Mbappe news has huge implications for Manchester United

Four of the world’s top footballers – Kylian Mbappe, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Paul Pogba are all at the end, or within a year of the end of their contracts.

This makes this summer’s transfer window quite unique and what complicates it even further is the financial constraints brought about by the impact of Covid-19 on football.

As of today, Messi is a free agent.

And the French football world has been rocked this morning as well amid news that Mbappe does not want to extend his contract with Paris St Germain.

‘Kylian Mbappé has informed some members of PSG, that as things stand, he will not extend. But he will respect his last year of contract.,’ reports L’Equipe.

And while this is highly unlikely to have a direct impact on Manchester United – there are no serious reports linking the club with the 22-year-old – it could have a profound knock-on effect on the future of Pogba and also on the Reds’ pursuit of Real Madrid defender, Raphael Varane.

PSG’s president Nasser Al-Khelaïfi has gone public in saying he will not sell the forward at any price but it would be quite a statement to let him go for free in a year’s time. Now is therefore the time for the Frenchman’s prime suitors, Real Madrid, who had recently appeared to accept defeat on the issue, to test the water with a tasty offer that could persuade the Qataris to cut their losses.

It would also soften the blow somewhat if PSG were to sign Ronaldo, Messi, Pogba or all three – which as things stand is not completely impossible.

But for Real to land Mbappe this summer, funds will have to be raised, which puts the sale of wantaway Varane very much back on the agenda. This strengthens United’s position considerably on that transaction.

And if Al-Khelaïfi sticks to his guns and Mbappe stays, even for one more season, then Real could turn to Pogba to be their marquee signing this summer.

Either way, following an impressive showing at Euro 2020, Pogba could be in demand in the next few weeks. Also, he himself could ‘do a Mbappe’ and simply run down his contract at his current club.

United for their part will almost certainly not ‘do an Al-Khelaïfi’ and refuse to sell their star, but as is the case for PSG, there will be simply nothing they can do if he just chooses to play out his last year at United.

Meanwhile, over in Italy, if Ronaldo does join PSG – who are fast becoming football’s Harlem Globetrotters – Juventus, too, will have money in their pocket to make another push for their beloved Pogba, who is reportedly their ‘dream’ signing.

How this will all pan out is anyone’s guess, but one thing is certain: it all makes for a fascinating summer ahead on the transfer market.

The post Kylian Mbappe’s decision has huge implications for Paul Pogba’s future first appeared on Man United Transfer News & Gossip | The Peoples Person.