Chelsea want one of Madrid's biggest stars. (REUTERS)
Manchester United have laid the foundations for a huge transfer coup, which would see one of the world’s best players come to Old Trafford.
United have fallen from their lofty perch in the past decade or so, but have continued to spend big in the transfer market and lure some of the game’s best talents to the club.
Be it Paul Pogba or Harry Maguire for world-record fees, or more up-and-coming stars like Leny Yoro or Benjamin Sesko in more recent years, United’s on-pitch woes have not translated to the negotiating room.
Recent reports suggest they are keen to flex their pulling power once more, as a developing situation on the continent could open up an opportunity for an era-defining deal.
Manchester United contact Vinicius Junior’s reps amid Madrid tensions
Vinicius Junior, Ballon d’Or runner-up in 2024, is reportedly unsettled at Real Madrid having apparently become unhappy over his role under new boss Xabi Alonso.
Vinicius has put up some decent numbers this season, notching 11 goal involvements in his first 18 games, and delivered a masterful assist for Kylian Mbappe during their recent 4-3 win over Olympiacos in the Champions League.
However, his dry run of nearly two months without a goal could be indicative of his current mood in the Spanish capital – and it appears that United smell a chance to offer the Brazilian a way out.
According to CaughtOffside, the Red Devils have “made contact” with Vinicius’ representatives, citing “issues” between him and Alonso.
Despite the communication between parties, the probability of a transfer is less concrete, with CaughtOffside making clear how there remains a good relationship between Vinicius and Madrid owner Florentino Perez.
United and their supporters must also consider the prospect of other clubs entering the mix if the winger becomes available, with rivals Manchester City mentioned as a potential alternative destination.
There is also no mention of desire on Vinicius’ side to join Manchester United – or anyone else, for that matter.
However, with his contract up in 18 months, a new contract offer should be on the horizon, at which point, United could be poised to pounce if talks stall.
So while the likelihood of Ruben Amorim’s side pulling off such a deal remains up in the air, the fact they have set out these lofty ambitions is surely a sign of the confidence behind the scenes that even an underachieving United can shop wherever they like.
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