Transfer drama unfolding at Old Trafford! Is Man Utd’s ‘bomb squad’ finally being defused? Reports suggest Garnacho is off to Chelsea for a medical, and Antony is making a rapid return to Real Betis. What do these moves mean for the Red Devils’ season?

A seismic shift is underway at Old Trafford as reports indicate a significant overhaul of Manchester United’s squad is imminent, with two high-profile wingers on the verge of departing. Alejandro Garnacho is reportedly in London for a medical ahead of a move to Chelsea, while Antony is increasingly linked with a return to Real Betis, signaling a clear intent from the Red Devils to reshape their roster and balance the books before the transfer deadline.

Garnacho, a promising talent within the Manchester United setup, has been a subject of Chelsea’s interest throughout the summer transfer window. His potential switch to Stamford Bridge comes after a period where he saw reduced playing time, notably being substituted after only 20 minutes in a Europa League final, leading to speculation about his future at the club.

The deal for Garnacho appears to be largely finalized, with reliable sources confirming that Chelsea and Manchester United have agreed to terms. The transfer fee is understood to be around £40 million, with an additional 10% sell-on clause, indicating Chelsea’s confidence in the young winger’s long-term potential. Garnacho is expected to sign a seven-year contract with the London club following his medical.

Interestingly, the agreed fee for Garnacho is reportedly lower than Manchester United’s initial valuation. The Red Devils were initially looking for a figure closer to £50 million, highlighting the complexities of transfer negotiations and perhaps a willingness from United to facilitate the move as part of their squad restructuring efforts.

Simultaneously, Antony, another winger acquired by Manchester United for a hefty sum in 2022, is also a prime candidate for an exit. Real Betis has shown persistent interest in the Brazilian, preparing what is described as a “final offer” to secure his services, further emphasizing United’s drive to offload players deemed part of the “bomb squad.”

Negotiations between Manchester United and Real Betis for Antony have been protracted, with Betis initially seeking a loan deal which United rejected, insisting on a permanent transfer. The Spanish club’s latest proposal is structured around a purchase of approximately 50% of the player’s transfer rights for around €25 million, including various performance-related variables.

Antony’s strong desire to return to Real Betis is believed to be a pivotal factor in advancing the deal. His determination, coupled with Betis’s revised financial package that includes a long-term, increasing contract for the player, makes a transfer before the Monday deadline highly probable, potentially marking an end to his relatively short and often challenging stint at Old Trafford.

The financial implications for Manchester United are significant, especially concerning Antony, who joined the club for approximately £80 million. While the incoming fee from Real Betis is considerably less, these moves reflect a strategic decision by United to adjust their squad dynamics and financial commitments, preparing for future endeavors.

These potential departures underscore a proactive approach from Manchester United to streamline their squad, address financial considerations, and create space for new tactical directions. The impending transfers of Garnacho and Antony signify a critical juncture in the club’s current transfer window, with significant ramifications for the team’s composition and performance in the upcoming season.