Here are the latest Manchester United evening headlines for Wednesday August 19.
Sancho salary demands and agent fee still a stumbling block in United negotiations
United’s attempts to sign Jadon Sancho are being held up by the player’s contract demands and agent’s fees.
The MEN understands that no agreement has been reached between player and club, and discussions are still ongoing with agent Emeka Obasi and Borussia Dortmund representative Marco Lichtsteiner.
Despite the Bundesliga club’s reluctance to sell, and the ‘obstacle’ of Sancho’s salary demands and potential agent fees, United are determined not to give up on the 20-year-old.
Dortmund sporting director Michael Zorc has insisted that the England international will remain at Dortmund after signing a new deal until 2023.
If United fail in their attempts to sign Sancho, they are willing to consider other options, including Bournemouth’s David Brooks and Bayern Munich’s Kingsley Coman.
United yet to make official bid for Brooks
David Brooks remains on United’s radar but the club have yet to make contact with Bournemouth.
The 23-year-old winger is seen as a possible alternative to Sancho, whose signature continues to elude the Reds.
Brooks would be significantly cheaper, too, expected to be available for around £40m this summer after Bournemouth’s relegation from the Premier League.
United are believed to have been tracking the Wales international for some time, and could make an offer over the next few weeks.
It remains to be seen, though, whether any move will depend on the outcome of the Sancho transfer saga.
Barcelona youngster effectively confirms move to United on social media
Marc Jurado has all but revealed on Instagram that he will be joining United from Barcelona this summer.
The 16-year-old responded to a post from Bruno Fernandes with a comment that hinted at his involvement from next season onwards.
The Portuguese midfielder wrote: “Unfortunately our journey in the Europa League ends here. It wasn't what we expected. We wanted to be in the final and fight for the trophy we so desired. Whilst we congratulate Sevilla for making it to the final, we still played well and we didn't deserve to stop here.
“It is now time for rest and to reflect so that we come back even stronger and reach the goals we set ourselves for the next season!
“Thank you to all my teammates and staff who welcomed me so well over these past months at the Red Devils. I hope to continue to learn and grow everyday with you, and that we conquer many titles in the future!
“Together we loose (sic.), together we make mistakes and together we grow #MUFC.”
Jurado, in response, said: “We keep fighting.” The teenager’s signing has not been officially announced by United, though he is set to join for a minimal compensation fee after rejecting a contract offer from Barcelona.
