FINALLY DONE: Manchester United have officially wrapped up the signing of a £78 million striker who has been in devastating form this season, scoring 30 goals across all competitions.
The medical examinations were completed successfully, and even the player’s jersey number was quietly finalized late last night.
With that, Michael Carrick has secured his first major signing since taking charge, sending a clear message about the club’s renewed ambition.
Away from the confirmed deal, United are also being strongly linked with a sensational move for Barcelona winger Raphinha, though the potential transfer is shaping up to be one of the most fiercely contested battles of the upcoming window.
Wingers Return to the Spotlight
INEOS’ dramatic decision to end Rúben Amorim’s turbulent spell at Old Trafford earlier this month sent ripples throughout English football.
Reports of a heated breakdown in relations between Amorim and sporting director Jason Wilcox made the Portuguese coach’s position increasingly untenable, paving the way for Michael Carrick to step in as interim manager until the end of the campaign.
Carrick wasted no time stamping his authority on the team. He swiftly abandoned Amorim’s unpopular 3-4-2-1 system in favor of a more traditional 4-2-3-1 setup — a change that has paid immediate dividends.
Consecutive victories against Manchester City and Arsenal have not only lifted morale but also reignited debate over why the club persisted for over a year with a formation that clashed with United’s historic identity of quick transitions and dangerous wide play.
It is now widely believed that whoever takes the managerial job on a permanent basis in the summer — whether Carrick himself or a high-profile appointment — will be expected to stick with a back four and deploy natural wingers.
United’s Search for Width
With that tactical direction in mind, reinforcing the left wing has become a pressing concern. United currently have far more natural options on the right, where Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo fit comfortably. On the left, however, choices are limited.
RB Leipzig’s exciting youngster Yan Diomande is reportedly high on the club’s shortlist, while Everton’s Iliman Ndiaye is also being considered.
The latter fits INEOS’ growing preference for players already proven in the Premier League.
Yet, according to reports from Spain, United are dreaming bigger. Sources claim the club is keen on signing Raphinha after the Barcelona star reportedly turned down a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia.
A Stunning Proposal on the Table
As per Football365, Manchester United are prepared to submit a staggering bid for the Brazilian international.
Raphinha enjoyed the most productive season of his career last year, delivering an astonishing 34 goals and 26 assists as Barcelona stormed to a domestic league and cup double.
Despite a slower start this season, United are allegedly willing to offer around £82 million to lure the 29-year-old back to England, where he previously made his name with Leeds United.
However, the Red Devils are not alone. Liverpool are also said to be in the race, with both clubs eager to strike an agreement with Barcelona this summer.
Reports suggest both Old Trafford and Anfield could offer wages in the region of £365,000 per week — a figure that has raised serious eyebrows.
Reality Check
INEOS have been actively working to reduce United’s inflated wage structure, even pushing Casemiro towards the exit partly due to his massive salary.
Offering a similar package to Raphinha, who will turn 30 next season, appears contradictory to that strategy. Coupled with the enormous transfer fee, the deal begins to look financially questionable.
Final Verdict
There is no denying Raphinha’s quality. Few left wingers in Europe can match his output, flair, and intensity. However, when age, wages, and transfer cost are taken into account, the logic behind such a move becomes difficult to justify. While the links are exciting, this one may belong more to the realm of speculation than reality.
