Well, that’s that in a hectic transfer window which saw clubs negotiating deals at literally the 11th hour. United having captured three out of four targets demanded by Mourinho at the start of the summer were relaxed and under no pressure to get deals done. But that did not stop the club from inquiring about players as Alexis Sanchez, Riyad Mahrez and Thomas Lemar were all linked with moves to Old Trafford on deadline day.
Arguably one of the easier deals to make, Riyad Mahrez was linked with United in the last week of the window. United faced competition from Chelsea, Arsenal and Barcelona as all wanted to sign the Leicester talisman. He even tried to force his way out of the home former Champions. Mahrez was also given permission to leave the Algerian Camp and try to complete his dream transfer. But United did make a bid as the Glazers decided to tighten the strings to their purse.
An alternative to Mahrez was Arsenal’s Alexis Sanchez. United clearly did not try to sign the Chilean despite multiple outlets claiming United would launch a late bid to sign him. Manchester City reportedly had an offer accepted and Sanchez even signed a contract with the noisy neighbours but the transfer was dependent on Arsenal signing a replacement. The Gunners failed and United can have another crack at signing the Chilean next summer, this time on a free.
Thomas Lemar was another player tipped to move to the Premier League this transfer window and was the replacement for Alexis Sanchez. Monaco accepted a bid for the French International but the player refused to sign for the Gunners. Paul Pogba aka Agent P’s latest Instagram post suggests that he had something to with Lemar’s decision. United are long term admirers of the Frenchman and may be targeted once again next summer.
While no one came in, youngsters Matty Willock left the club for Eredivisie side Utrecht on a season long loan. One of the constants at the Academy and recently in the Reserves, Willock was allowed to leave as the club hopes that he gains vital first team experience in Holland.
United reportedly rejected loan moves from young James Wilson on medical grounds. The youngster who ruptured his ligaments at Derby last season only just made his comeback for the Reserves. United want to monitor his recuperation at Old Trafford and may let him join a club on loan as the season wears on.
In stark contrast with other clubs, United had a very peaceful deadline day. It was eerily similar to last campaign when United completed their business early and sat back and enjoyed watching things unfold on the couch. It is an admirable policy as United can get players for lesser prices earlier on.
So, now it’s Jose’s turn to work after Ed Woodward did his bit in getting in the players wanted by Jose. Onto the football.