Manchester United: Barcelona to move for Cavani as replacement for Aguero

Edinson Cavani is a step closer to leaving Manchester United for Barcelona following reports that Sergio Agüero is expected to announce his retirement from football on Wednesday after being diagnosed with a heart condition detected after a game against Alavés in October. Barça have been in the market for a striker since Agüero suffered an arrythmia during the game at Camp Nou and have now reportedly settled on Uruguay international Cavani, who has seen his influence at Old Trafford wane after the arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Speaking to Globoesporte, Cavani’s brother and agent, Walter Guglielmone, indicated that a January exit for the striker was very much on the cards. “A return to South America? We’ll have to wait a bit and see what possibilities are on the table. Obviously, if a club in Brazil [Corinthians have expressed an interest] offer an interesting project, we will always listen. I have the obligation to keep all options open for Cavani.”

Cavani extended his deal at United under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer but is now considering a change of scenery and Barça have given the green light to Xavi to try and persuade him to spend the second half of the 2021-22 season at Camp Nou, potentially on an initial loan. The only concern the Liga side have is over his fitness, as Cavani is still nursing a tendon issue that has restricted him this campaign. The 34-year-old will have to take a pay cut to move to Barça and will expect to be an undisputed starter, leaving Barcelona to make sure there is no stone unturned with regards to a medical.

So far this season, Cavani has managed only 274 minutes across eight appearances for Manchester United.