Manchester United transfer news: Al-Hilal 'plotting' move for teenager

Manchester United may reportedly have to fend off interest from Alejandro Garnacho during the summer transfer window.

The current focus of the club's footballing operations team is to strengthen in several areas of the pitch, including at centre-back and down the middle of the attack.

That is a consequence of players such as Raphael Varane and Anthony Martial being released at the end of their contracts, while other squad members are expected to be sold.

As it stands, though, reports have indicated that United only have a limited transfer budget for the summer, hindering their efforts to sign the likes of Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite.

United will naturally want to retain the services of all their key players and most valuable assets, with Garnacho falling under both brackets.

However, it remains to be seen how United and the player will react if they are presented with a lucrative offer for his signature.

© Reuters

Al-Hilal planning Garnacho move

According to Qatari outlet Alkass TV Sports, via X, Al-Hilal are considering whether to make a formal approach for the Argentina international.

The report suggests that the Saudi Pro League champions are in the market for at least one young winger, with the 19-year-old fitting the bill.

Al-Hilal already boast a squad full of high-profile names, including the likes of Ruben Neves, Neymar and Aleksandar Mitrovic.

Nevertheless, they are all experienced players, and successfully tempting one of the world's top prospects to the Middle East would represent a huge coup.

© Reuters

How may Man United react?

With Garnacho one of several players earmarked by INEOS as not for sale upon their arrival, the chances of a sale appear to be remote.

The Red Devils also have plans to raise funds through the exits of other players, including big-earning Casemiro who also has admirers in Saudi Arabia.

From Garnacho's perspective, he was provided with 50 appearances by Erik ten Hag during 2024-25 and will remain a first-choice pick on the left flank should he stay.

If United were to be tempted into a sale, the expectation would be that an offer in the region of £70m to £80m would be required as a bare minimum, with Garnacho still having four years left on his contract.