A potential Man Utd move for Thomas Meunier that would push a £50m star out could be hijacked by Barcelona before it properly gets going, per a report.
With less than a fortnight to go, Man Utd are on course for a hectic end to the summer window. The Telegraph reported five new arrivals are being targeted. The positions of right-back, central midfield, winger and centre-forward will be addressed.
The Red Devils are looking for two midfield additions and progress is rapidly being made regarding Real Madrid superstar, Casemiro.
David Ornstein claimed Casemiro is being so strongly pursued because their Frenkie de Jong interest has cooled. United fans hoping to see both players anchoring their midfield will likely have to settle for one or the other.
At right-back, Borussia Dortmund veteran, Thomas Meunier, is in Erik ten Hag’s sights.
The Dutch boss wants more forward-thinking options who play on the front foot as his full-backs. Meunier certainly ticks that box, in stark contrast to current back-up, Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
In fact, the Telegraph reported Manchester United are prepared to take a £40m loss on Wan-Bissaka who is now firmly behind Diogo Dalot in the pecking order.
Former club Crystal Palace are a genuine candidate to take him back either permanently or on loan.
Wan-Bissaka will only be moved on if an upgrade is signed. That’s where Meunier comes in and a bid worth £12.6m was reportedly being prepared.
Barcelona eyeing Meunier after Chelsea disappointment
However, according to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, United’s fledgling move could be torpedoed before it’s truly begun.
They state Barcelona are pushing to sign a new right-back after their Cesar Azpilicueta chase ended in defeat. The Blues captain penned a new two-year deal at Stamford Bridge on August 4.
Their primary target is reportedly former Tottenham and Villarreal right-back, Juan Foyth.
However, if Unai Emery’s side don’t play ball, Meunier is termed one of their most ‘serious’ alternatives.
Barcelona have developed a habit of hijacking transfers this summer. Chelsea fans can attest to that after seeing Jules Kounde and Raphinha snatched from their side’s grasp.
United may be next to fall victim to Barcelona’s free-spending ways, unless the Spaniards are successful in landing No 1 target Foyth first, of course.