Manchester United Interested in £51m Newcastle Flop for Summer Transfer
Manchester United is reportedly eyeing a potential summer transfer move for Mikel Merino, the Real Sociedad midfielder. The Red Devils are among several clubs closely monitoring the 27-year-old Spaniard, whose contract negotiations with Sociedad have hit a standstill. Merino has emerged as one of the most sought-after midfielders in La Liga after an underwhelming spell with Newcastle United.
Merino has made a name for himself this season, scoring three goals and providing three assists in the Spanish top flight. He has also found the back of the net twice in the Champions League. However, as Merino enters the final 18 months of his contract with Sociedad, his future at the club has become uncertain. The midfielder’s talks for a possible contract extension have reached a standstill, with his representatives waiting to see if Sociedad secures European football for next season.
The report suggests that Merino’s representation is reluctant to make a decision until a European place is guaranteed. Even if Sociedad secures European football, Merino may still opt against signing an extension due to the interest he is attracting from rival clubs. Manchester United, Manchester City, Juventus, and Atletico Madrid have all been tracking Merino this season, and Sociedad is well aware of their presence.
Merino currently has a release clause of €60 million (£51 million) in his contract with Sociedad. However, the club may be forced to sell him for a lower fee this summer to avoid losing him on a free transfer in 2025. Standing at 6 ft 2 in, Merino is known for his passing ability and rose through Osasuna’s academy before joining Borussia Dortmund in 2016. After a loan spell with Newcastle, he struggled to live up to expectations before returning to Spain to join Sociedad.
Manchester United has been actively scouting players across Europe this season, and a busy summer transfer window is expected at Old Trafford. The club is likely to prioritize strengthening their defense, with several players on their radar, including Antonio Silva from Benfica, Jean-Clair Todibo from Nice, and Giorgio Scalvini from Atalanta. However, Jarrad Branthwaite has emerged as United’s top target at center-back after an impressive season at Everton.
While Everton has set a price tag of £75 million for Branthwaite, United is hopeful that they can negotiate a deal closer to £50 million. With a partial £1.3 billion takeover by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the Red Devils are looking to make significant moves in the transfer market.
In conclusion, Manchester United’s interest in Mikel Merino highlights their intention to strengthen their midfield options. The Spanish midfielder’s contract negotiations at Sociedad have hit a standstill, making his future at the club uncertain. With several clubs, including Manchester United, tracking him, Merino could be on the move this summer. Additionally, United is also looking to bolster their defense, with Jarrad Branthwaite emerging as their top target at center-back. As the summer transfer window approaches, it remains to be seen whether Manchester United will be successful in acquiring their desired targets.