Weekly Manchester United Transfer Talk -Jan. Week 3

John McGinn has been linked with a Manchester United transfer

Another week down and several more transfer rumors have emerged. Some of the rumors persist from previous weeks, while new ones dominate the headlines. It’s always hard to know what to believe when it comes to Manchester United transfer news. So, let’s break some of the headlines down and check in on the progress of some recurring rumors.

John McGinn leaving Villa Park for Old Trafford

The Scottish midfielder John McGinn could make his way to Manchester this coming summer. Several news sources are reporting United are interested in signing the 27 year old, while Aston Villa are apparently willing to listen to offers. The estimated price for McGinn is around 40 million pounds. Considering his price, age, and United’s lack of quality in the midfield, this may be a good option for United. McGinn is an experienced Premier League proven midfielder. The Scotsman has always shown grit and a willingness to go all out for his team. You could argue about his overall quality all day, but United need more players with his drive in the midfield.

This move seems like it would be better for United to make now, but McGinn’s contract is until 2025. He’s a consistent starter in the current Villa side, so the likelihood of them letting him go midseason is extremely unlikely. Perhaps, for the right price Villa could be tempted. The arrival of Phillipe Coutinho at Villa park certainly would make the Villains more willing.

John McGinn exclusive interview: 'No-one has a backside as big as mine -  but it makes me the player I am'
McGinn has 3 goals with 2 assists for Villa this season

United Transfer Talk – Jude Bellingham Inbound?

According to multiple reports, John Murtough has made Bellingham United’s top transfer target this summer. No matter who the manger is come summer at Old Trafford, it’s hard to argue with the signing of this young English talent. A player of his quality, regardless of his young age, would improve United’s midfield 10 fold overnight. Bellingham is one the best young talents in the entire world and will be sought after by many top clubs. United was in for him before he left England for Dortmund, so perhaps their past interest/talks could assist them in the future.

One thing is for certain though, United must secure Champions League football if they are to bring in players like Jude. The current Dortmund player has been excellent in the Bundesliga the past couple seasons, as well as in the Champions League. United have the money to make this deal happen, but they need to be sure they crack the top 4 by seasons end.

Borussia Dortmund: Jude Bellingham fined by German FA and under  investigation by police | Marca
At just 18 years old, Bellingham has been a crucial player for Dortmund the last 2 years

Ronald Araujo to leave Barca

Manchester United are said to be interested in signing 22 year-old Uruguayan midfielder Ronald Araujo form Barcelona amid contract disputes with the Catalonian club. Araujo is said to be ‘displeased’ with the current contact offer form Barcelona. The clubs is also willing to hear offers for the young defender due to their current financial situation.

At 22 years of age, Araujo has made 60 appearances for Barcelona. He’s a tall, athletic, and strong young lad. His game would be fit to any top side, specifically an English side. A pairing of Araujo with Varane for a couple of seasons would surely be an upgrade for United. Although, Chelsea are also interested in the Uruguayan. United will need to act decisively if they are to secure a top young talent at center back for many years to come.

Araujo is touted to be one of the worlds elite defenders of the next decade

United Transfer Talk – French Connection Update

Welp! The ‘French connection’ could be on it’s way out of Old Trafford. Anthony Martial and Paul Pogba both look set to leave the club. Pogba’s desire to leave has been known for a long time. Given he’s never deliberately said it, he’s certainly done nothing to dispel the rumors that have arisen every season since he’s arrived to Old Trafford. There have been times when he’s looked a top player for United and has seemed happy to be with the club, but consistent injuries and a lack of consistent performances leaves little room for United fans to remember him fondly.

Pogba will most likely leave on a free in the summer, unless United somehow make a huge end of season run and the incoming permanent manager can convince him to sing a new deal. Ragnick, with regards to the current situation, has said:

“He wants to show the fans of Manchester United, the board, the whole world what kind of player he can be, and even if it’s for only showing up for a new contract elsewhere, I mean, he will be highly motivated to do that. Why should I then not play him?”

Ragnick seems willing to give Pogba the opportunity to play for United again this season. Hopefully Pogba can help the squad qualify for the Champions League before leaving.

Martial

Lastly, Anthony Martial has seen some loan offers for him rejected by United. Ralf Ragnick also said the number 9 chose not to play for United due to his desire to leave. It does seem there may have been some misunderstanding though, and Ragnick seems willing to give the Frenchmen another chance. Barcelona, Sevilla, and Juventus have all shown interest in the striker. Martial will most likely depart the club this summer, but a new manager may change that. Only time will tell what happens to Manchester United’s ‘French connection’.

Martial makes two big claims over Man Utd teammate Paul Pogba | TEAMtalk
The potential of this duo has always been high

United Transfer Talk – Quick Updates

Eric ten Hag looks to be a likely candidate for the United manager vacancy. Although, the club seem more interested in Mauricio Pochettino. Ralf Ragnick has made his desire for Ten Hang to be appointed known. If United don’t take the German’s advice now, then why would he remain in a consulter role?

Alex Telles has been named a potential transfer target for Barcelona this summer. The Catalonian club want to give Jordi Alba competition. Although, Telles has looked decent in a United shirt so far despite a lack of game time. This move seems unlikely.

Ryan Gravenberch could arrive to Old Trafford with ten Hag, should the Ajax manager be appointed at United. Eric ten Hag has overseen Gravenberch’s rise as a quality CDM in the Erdevise for Ajax. United’s lack of a quality holding midfielder make this move a no brainer.

Brandon Williams has looked impressive in his loan spell with Norwich City. The Canaries are battling to fight off relegation, but the United loanee has been a bright spot. Teammates and fans alike have taken to Williams and noticed his impact as not just a defender but also as an attacker. Hopefully Williams returns to Old Trafford next season with a point to prove.

That’s it for this week’s edition of ‘Weekly Manchester United Transfer Talk’.

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