Missed Opportunities: Manchester United’s Regrettable Transfer Targets
Introduction:
Manchester United has a history of missing out on high-profile transfer targets, and this summer’s Euros have once again highlighted their regrettable decisions. While players like Jude Bellingham and Erling Haaland have thrived elsewhere, there are lesser-known cases that are even more regrettable. Let’s delve into these missed opportunities and explore the potential impact on the team.
1. Jamal Musiala:
One of the most glaring missed opportunities for Manchester United is Jamal Musiala. The 21-year-old German international was on the cusp of a deal with the Red Devils six years ago. United’s scout, Andreas Herrmann, was thoroughly impressed by him at a Germany training camp, and Lyndon Tomlinson, United’s assistant head of academy recruitment, saw him play against Croatia for England’s U16s alongside Bellingham. However, complications with the deal and concerns about regulations led United to deem the move too risky. Since then, Musiala has become a superstar for Bayern Munich and Germany, with 74 goal contributions in 163 games for the German giants at such a young age. He has also scored three goals for Germany at the Euros, taking his international tally to five in 33 appearances.
2. Benjamin Sesko:
Another missed opportunity for Manchester United is Slovenian forward Benjamin Sesko. When Sesko was playing for Slovenian side Domzale, United were informed of a bid of £1.7 million from RB Salzburg for the promising attacker. However, United only sanctioned a rival offer worth £850,000, which was eventually increased to just £1 million. Sesko joined Salzburg and has since signed for RB Leipzig, where he has scored 18 times in 42 appearances. Now being linked with a £56 million move to Manchester United, the Red Devils could have signed him for a fraction of that amount five years ago.
3. Pedro Neto:
Portuguese winger Pedro Neto, who now plays for Wolves, was identified by Manchester United in 2017 when he was a Braga youth team player. The club brought him to Carrington for an academy match, and the recruitment team pushed to sign him. However, those responsible for offering the deal delayed the submission of a formal contract, and Neto ended up signing an extension with Braga. Now a 10-cap Portugal international, Neto has scored 14 goals in 135 games for Wolves and was linked with a Manchester United switch back in February.
4. Moises Caicedo:
In January 2021, Moises Caicedo caught Manchester United’s attention with his impressive performances in South America. His £1.7 million release clause was not considered an issue, but a deal involving multiple agents did not materialize. Brighton eventually signed him later that month before Chelsea agreed to a massive £115 million deal to bring him in last summer. Caicedo’s availability for a tiny fee and subsequent rise to becoming a £115 million player showcases another missed opportunity for Manchester United.
Conclusion:
Manchester United’s missed transfer opportunities at this summer’s Euros highlight their regrettable decisions in the past. The cases of Jamal Musiala, Benjamin Sesko, Pedro Neto, and Moises Caicedo demonstrate how the club has let talented players slip through their fingers. These missed opportunities not only raise questions about United’s scouting and recruitment processes but also emphasize the importance of making bold and decisive moves in the transfer market. As they look to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season, learning from these past mistakes will be crucial for Manchester United’s future success.