Manchester United renew Grealish interest

Manchester United remain interested in Aston Villa playmaker Jack Grealish.

The 25-year-old England international has been one of the standout performers of the season, and after signing a new contract with Villa looks set to be one of their most important players in the next few seasons.

However, that time could be cut short if a number of Premier League sides get their way and can put in an offer that is sufficiently high to convince Villa to part with their star player.

United were interested in Grealish over the summer as an alternative to Jadon Sancho but no deal was finalised. The club had agreed terms with the player well before the summer in case they decided to firm up any interest, but no official bid was made and the player remained at Villa Park.

The financial impact of the coronavirus was one of the reasons that United did not move for the player, as well as their focus on Borussia Dortmund winger Sancho. Ultimately the club decided to play Facundo Pellistri and Amad Dialla, so they’ve got that going for them.

The Sun suggest that a move could be made next summer, and the deal could be funded by the exit of Paul Pogba. He is unlikely to move in January because the club would demand a significant transfer fee for the player, and United are unlikely to have the cash to meet the £100 million valuation for the player.

Another transfer target is RB Leipzig central defender Dayot Upamecano. United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wants a new defender to partner Harry Maguire, although Maguire is now shot to bits too. Because Leipzig have qualified for the knockout stages of the Champions League he is unlikely to be available until the summer, when United will manage to eff that one up too.