​Manchester United appear set for an unexpected boost after Chelsea reportedly reached a crucial decision about Alejandro Garnacho’s future at Stamford Bridge. While United fans voiced concerns about last summer’s sale of Garnacho, the move has arguably been one of INEOS’s smarter choices since taking charge at Old Trafford. After falling out with then-head coach Ruben Amorim following Garnacho’s omission from the Europa League final defeat to Tottenham, the 22-year-old Argentina international was placed in the infamous ‘bomb squad’ alongside Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, Antony, and Tyrell Malacia.
This stance is thought to have weakened United’s negotiating position, as the club initially valued Garnacho at £70 million in January amid interest from Napoli. Six months later, Chelsea’s £40 million offer was accepted, a deal that now looks questionable given Garnacho’s limited impact at west London. Eight goals and four assists across the season appear decent for a winger, but only four of those came in the Carabao Cup, and in Chelsea’s two priority competitions—the Premier League and the Champions League—he managed just two goals in 36 appearances. Predictably, Chelsea are now prepared to acknowledge their error and explore a selling option after twelve months.
This will attract particular interest from Manchester United, as a 10% sell-on clause was included in last summer’s deal. Several Italian clubs have already shown interest, led by AS Roma, though Gian Pessina’s side prefer a loan arrangement. AC Milan and Juventus have also been contacted about Garnacho’s availability, though Serie A’s financial constraints pose a challenge for selling clubs. If Chelsea were to send Garnacho out on loan, United would receive nothing from the sell-on clause; however, Football London’s Bobby Vincent reports that the Blues will only approve a permanent exit, increasing the likelihood of a windfall for United. Chelsea reportedly confirmed to transfer expert Ben Jacobs that there are several interested clubs, with Napoli or Atletico Madrid among possible destinations should Garnacho leave Stamford Bridge for a permanent deal next season.