Manchester United deal has new transfer ‘formula’ – involving loan and obligation

One potential Manchester United deal this summer reportedly has a new transfer ‘formula’ that could work, involving a loan and obligation to buy.

The Reds have made two signings so far this summer in Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee, but more additions are expected in the coming weeks.

Erik ten Hag’s side needs further depth in several positions and the midfield is certainly one of them despite impressive performances from Mason Mount and Toby Collyer in pre-season so far.

In particular, the deeper midfield role is a concern for United and there are several players linked with a move to help this problem.

Manuel Ugarte seems to be the preferred option but another target for the club is Sofyan Amrabat, who spent the 2023/24 campaign on loan at Old Trafford.

Those at United are not planning to activate the buy option which was placed in his loan contract from Fiorentina, but they are reportedly looking to see if they can strike a deal on different terms.

Amrabat is not planning to stay at the Serie A club and has not returned to training this summer, awaiting news on his future.

Corriere dello Sport reports that United might employ a different formula in a potential deal for the 27-year-old.

Instead of purchasing the midfielder outright for around £10 million, they could opt for another loan deal.

However, this time, there would be an obligation to buy the player after the loan for a fee closer to the £10 million mark rather than the previous figure in his first loan contract.

This could be a solution that saves United as much money as possible for this window, with several other signings wanted at Old Trafford.

INEOS are aiming to bring in another midfielder and centre-back, as well as strengthening their options on either fullback.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka is linked with a summer departure, and West Ham are eager to sign the 26-year-old.

United are looking at Bayern Munich fullback Noussair Mazraoui as a replacement, with the former Ajax player keen to join the club and reunite with Ten Hag.

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