​Manchester United’s leadership has stressed that they won’t splash out recklessly in the transfer market. However, after losing Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes to their top six Premier League rivals, INEOS finds itself in a delicate position, and a bold signing could be needed to win over the fan base. Interestingly, a report suggests the Red Devils are prepared to do just that, but their target would be an attacker rather than a midfielder. Real Madrid are reportedly weighing the possibility of selling Vinicius Junior this summer, as he enters the final year of his contract at the Santiago Bernabeu. Talks over an extension have stalled, attracting interest from Europe’s biggest clubs, including Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, and Liverpool. The 25-year-old, who scored 22 goals and provided 14 assists across all competitions last season, is believed to be seeking a salary on par with or higher than Kylian Mbappe’s, a demand Real Madrid are unlikely to meet. Additionally, Real president Florentino Perez does not want to lose the Brazilian superstar for free, so a summer sale is being considered.
The report claims United are ready to take “the most concrete step” in the pursuit of Vinicius, who is currently leading Brazil’s attack at the World Cup. Michael Carrick is said to have identified Vinicius as a primary target, with Old Trafford now focused on pulling off a notable transfer. It is alleged United have “prepared a formal offer” in the region of $137 million (£103 million) and are ready to submit it to Real Madrid in the coming weeks.
As for Vinicius Junior’s 2025/26 season, United’s plan has often been to bolster their left flank, and landing one of Europe’s most prominent left wingers would be thrilling. Yet the club’s main priority is a midfield overhaul, and they are unlikely to have the budget for a record-breaking addition higher up the pitch.