INEOS faces significant challenges as they navigate their first transfer window as co-owners of Manchester United. After securing footballing control of the Old Trafford club, the consortium is under pressure to revitalize the team following a mixed performance last season.
FA Cup Triumph Masks Premier League Struggles
While the FA Cup victory at Wembley provided a moment of glory, it cannot completely overshadow Manchester United’s disappointing eighth-place finish in the Premier League. Erik ten Hag’s squad struggled in several areas, underscoring the need for substantial improvements.
Targeting Key Upgrades in the Squad
INEOS is focused on strengthening the team this summer, with several players potentially on their way out. Bruno Fernandes stands out as one of the few elite performers at Carrington. However, with ongoing speculation about Fernandes’ future and reported interest from Saudi Arabia, United might need to find a new attacking midfielder.
Xavi Simons: A Promising Target
According to L’Equipe, Manchester United has initiated contact with Paris Saint-Germain to explore the possibility of signing Xavi Simons. The 21-year-old playmaker had an impressive loan spell with RB Leipzig last season, netting 10 goals and providing 15 assists across all competitions.
Filling Fernandes’ Shoes
Replacing Fernandes’ creativity and leadership would be a daunting task for United, but Simons has demonstrated the potential to take on such a role. His performances at both PSV and RB Leipzig highlight his ability to drive his team’s attack, making him a compelling target for the Red Devils.
Competition and Complications
Despite Simons’ achievements, his future at PSG remains uncertain. This uncertainty has attracted interest from multiple clubs, including Arsenal and Manchester United. PSG is reportedly inclined towards a loan move rather than a permanent sale of the Dutch midfielder. The French club would need to share a significant portion of the transfer fee with PSV if Simons is sold before January 2025, adding another layer of complexity to the negotiations.
Convincing Simons to Make the Move
Another challenge for Manchester United is convincing Simons to join them. The Peoples Person recently reported that Simons turned down a move to Old Trafford last summer, despite United agreeing to a €60 million deal with PSG. Following the collapse of that transfer, Simons was loaned to RB Leipzig, where he continued to develop his skills.
Conclusion
As INEOS steps into its role as co-owner, the pressure is on to deliver significant upgrades to Manchester United’s squad. The pursuit of Xavi Simons illustrates the club’s commitment to enhancing its attacking options. However, overcoming the hurdles in convincing Simons and navigating PSG’s transfer preferences will be critical in determining whether this promising talent will don the red jersey next season.
For more details, stay tuned to our updates as we continue to follow Manchester United’s transfer activities this summer.
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