Manchester United missed out on obvious transfer decision as INEOS change priority

Manchester United missed out on one obvious transfer decision after INEOS changed their priority going into the summer window.

The Reds ended the 2023/24 campaign in terrific style by winning the FA Cup final against Manchester City with goals from Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho.

However, their eighth-placed Premier League finish provided a better indicator about where Erik ten Hag’s squad is right now and INEOS are looking to make improvements.

It has been well-reported that the club are looking to sign at least two centre-backs in the summer transfer window after Raphaël Varane’s departure.

A striker to support Rasmus Højlund is also another important addition for Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his team.

A recent report from GiveMeSport has also highlighted that the midfield is another major priority for the club this summer.

According to the report, Ratcliffe and his INEOS-led team are focused on signing two midfielders during the transfer window.

The club’s key priority is to find a midfielder who can complement 19-year-old Kobbie Mainoo. Additionally, they are seeking another player to strengthen the midfield, with Wolves star Joao Gomes still under consideration for this role.

However, with several different transfers needed and a modest budget to spend, INEOS will need to look for good value signings in the market, and they have missed one of the largest in the engine room.

According to multiple reporters, including Fabrizio Romano, Luton Town have reached an agreement with Aston Villa for the transfer of Ross Barkley for around £5 million.

The former Chelsea and Everton midfielder was sublime last season at Kenilworth Road and proved that he can still excel in the Premier League.

Barkley, 30, had been linked to Old Trafford due to his former employment with OGC Nice after Ratcliffe and Sir Dave Brailsford signed him there.

However, the move did not materialise, and now the former England international is set to play Champions League football at Villa Park.

It seems like a missed opportunity for INEOS. An experienced player with proven quality for as little as £5 million. Meanwhile, they are looking at several other deals for well over £50 million.

In order to make those work, there will also need to be those smaller but smart signings, and Barkley seemed like the perfect fit.