Manchester United has been keeping a close eye on Netherlands striker Brian Brobbey; however, a January transfer appears unlikely, according to a source familiar with the matter. United manager Erik ten Hag has been interested in acquiring Brobbey from his former club, Ajax, since his arrival at Old Trafford. The club inquired about the player’s availability in 2022, but their budget was allocated to other targets, such as Brazil winger Antony.
Ten Hag, despite his interest in Brobbey, has been informed that the club’s financial situation, especially regarding permanent deals, remains tight. While Ten Hag desires to strengthen his squad during the January transfer window, it seems unlikely due to financial constraints. Nevertheless, Brobbey’s addition would provide valuable cover for the current forward duo of Rasmus Højlund and Marcus Rashford. Anthony Martial, who is managing a hip injury, is expected to stay at the club in January, despite the club’s willingness to listen to offers for him.
After Ajax’s 4-1 victory over RKC Waalwijk on Sunday, Brobbey addressed the rumors surrounding a potential move to Manchester United in a post-match press conference. The Netherlands international downplayed the reports, stating, “I’ll just stay in Amsterdam. I think Erik [ten Hag] has someone else in mind now. I also have a different telephone number.”
Manchester United remains open to signing players this month if an opportunity arises. However, their primary focus during the current transfer window has been to address their financial concerns ahead of the summer. The club has already approved several outgoing transfers, including Jadon Sancho, Donny van de Beek, Sergio Reguilón, Hannibal Mejbri, Álvaro Fernández, Joe Hugill, and Mateo Mejia. With Martial expected to leave on a free transfer in the summer, United is actively seeking to bring in another forward. Brian Brobbey is likely to be part of the conversation, particularly if Ten Hag continues as manager following a planned overhaul led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, a British billionaire who recently agreed to purchase a 25% stake in Manchester United, has made his first significant appointment in the club’s management. Omar Berrada, former chief football operations officer at Manchester City, will join United as the CEO. However, the club has not yet announced Berrada’s start date, as they are awaiting official approval from the Premier League for Ratcliffe’s takeover. Once the green light is given, Ratcliffe and his team are expected to commence their work in February.
While Manchester United’s interest in Brian Brobbey remains, a January deal seems unlikely due to the club’s financial situation. Ten Hag has been keen on signing the Netherlands striker, but other targets have taken priority in previous transfer windows. Nevertheless, United’s goal remains to strengthen their squad, especially in the attacking department, and Brobbey’s potential acquisition will likely be revisited in the future.
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