Despite links with a number of players, United failed to land a third major signing of the summer. United’s interest in landing a defensive midfielder and winger is not a secret in the footballing world. After failing to land one of their prime targets in Ivan Perisic, United looked at alternatives in RB Leipzig’s Emil Forsberg and Anderlecht’s Leon Dendoncker.
LEANDER DENDONCKER
Dendoncker is being targeted by United as one of the alternatives to signing Eric Dier. The 6ft 2in midfield powerhouse is available for a cheap price of £32m. He troubled United during their Europa League semi-final encounter. Dendoncker was reportedly scouted by Mourinho towards the back end of last season. Dendoncker, still just 22, may be a season removed from a move to a bigger club. Despite links, it would come as a surprise should sign Dendoncker.
EMIL FORSBERG
An alternative to Ivan Perisic is RB Leipzig’s Emil Forsberg. The pacey winger was the top assist getter in the Bundesliga in the previous campaign. Forsberg is rumored to be a cheaper alternative to Perisic despite being valued at an astonishing £45m. Forsberg was the facilitator of 19 goals last campaign. Still only 25, reports of contact between Leipzig and United were also mentioned in various news outlets. Leipzig are adamant that they will not sell the Swede this summer but United meeting Leipzig’s valuation may change that. Forsberg, however, played down links and revealed that he was committed to helping Leipzig to another successful campaign. Forsberg said: “For me everything is good and I am fully motivated and focused and I want to have an even better season than the last with RB.”
GARETH BALE
Despite Mourinho labelling a move for Gareth Bale as impossible, media outlets refused to stop speculation linking the Welshman to Old Trafford. Zidane not ruling out a transfer out of Madrid for Bale only fanned the flames of speculation. With Madrid looking to raise money to fund an audacious transfer for Kylian Mbappe, Gareth Bale could be put up on the transfer market. Mourinho for all his comments, will not let such an opportunity pass him by. Jose also reportedly asked officials to keep an eye on the developing story.
However, Bale’s agent Johnathan Barnett called it a ridiculous story.
NEMANJA MATIC
Nemanja continues to remain United’s top midfield target with the move becoming a reality with each passing minute. Juventus reportedly withdrew from the race and made signing PSG’s Blaise Matuidi their priority. Another United target Rajda Nainggolan signed a new contract leaving United with Matic and Fabinho. Mourinho prefers the Premier League tested Matic over Fabinho. United were prepared to shell out close to £45m to get Matic.