Man United looking to plunder from Atlético and Real Madrid
Manchester United, one of the most loved and admired clubs in the world and also in Spain are enduring a major slump. Cristiano Ronaldo has made no secret of his desire to leave Old Trafford as the ‘Red Devils’ languish at the foot of the Premier League table with two defeats from their opening games. Now the English club has set their sights on the two big Madrid clubs for reinforcements to help get them out of their rut. Casemiro has been seriously tempted with a five-season contract; with his current deal with Real Madrid expiring in 2025 when he will be 33 and aware the the club will only contemplate one year renewals at a time. United have reportedly made Atletico two offers for Cunha and João Félix, for 40 and 130 million respectively with the answer on both fronts being a negative from the LaLiga side.
Casemiro to United?
I don’t think Casemiro will bite. He is fine where he is, covered by a massive buyout clause and Varane’s recent experience with United will serve as a reminder that all that glitters is not gold. As for Atletico, it is no surprise that they reject the offer Joao Felix bid, just when everyone feels he about to blossom into the great striker that many felt he could be and fulfil early promise. Cunha is a player cherished by Cholo who sees the striker as a Diego Costa of the future. However, I believe that Atletico would consider a bid for Griezmann as a more feasible option. Now that Morata seems to have settled and found his shooting boots upon his return, the Frenchman may be further down the pecking order at Atleti.
Late acquisitions
Being an optimist by nature, I hope there will be no negative fallout for either Real Madrid or Atletico, but I am struck by this lazy outburst from the Premier League giants who are desperately attempting to address their misfiring squad with the new season already underway. If anything, this move reminds us of the latent threat from the Premier League and the deep pockets of their clubs. Already this this summer we’ve seen Valencia lose Guedes, Sevilla sold Diego Carlos with Villarreal’s Estupiñán the latest high profile exit to England. All three have left with the lure of higher wages for clubs that have less standing in a European context than the ones they left behind here. Manchester United now look to get in on the act as the club (who won’t be playing Champions League football this season) wield their financial muscle to lure LaLiga talent.