Manchester United’s transfer chief John Murtough recently visited Saudi Arabia for crucial discussions, as the club looks to offload several high-profile players in a bid to gather funds for upcoming transfer activities.
Key players Casemiro, Raphael Varane, Jadon Sancho, and Anthony Martial, who together cost the club a staggering £230 million, are on the selling block.
The Daily Mail reports that while in Riyadh, Murtough engaged in talks with representatives of the Saudi Pro League, though no definitive agreements were reached. This strategic move forms part of United’s broader plan to strengthen ties with the increasingly influential Saudi football market.
Despite the lack of immediate transfer deals, Murtough’s visit is seen as a step towards fostering long-term relationships, potentially beneficial for future transactions.
With the Saudi Pro League clubs’ substantial spending spree last summer, it’s speculated that significant transfer moves might have to wait until the summer window.
Sancho, sidelined from the first-team after disagreements with manager Erik Ten Hag, is a primary target for offloading in January. While United is open to offers for Varane, Martial, and Casemiro, they are not pushing for their exit, acknowledging their ongoing contribution to the team.
The urgency for these sales is underscored by United’s precarious financial standing, as they skirt closely to the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules limit.
Their spending spree last summer, which saw them acquire Hojlund, Onana, and Mount for nearly £200 million, has further tightened their financial constraints.
With Ten Hag seeking reinforcements across various positions, United may have to resort to loan signings if player sales don’t materialize.
As Murtough potentially faces his last transfer window with United, given the impending INEOS investment led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, this trip to Saudi Arabia could lay the groundwork for future financial and player exchanges.
