Manchester United have a battle on their hands to keep hold of Alejandro Garnacho and Fabrizio Romano has detailed their plan of action.
Garnacho has had a huge impact since breaking into the first team this season. The 18-year-old has scored two goals and has caught the eye of several sides from around Europe.
His last-gasp winner against Fulham showcased just what he is capable of. The winger’s current deal at Old Trafford runs until the summer of 2024, although the club does have the option of an extra year.
It has been reported that he is currently collecting a weekly wage of £7,000 and Man United were knocked back on a fresh deal worth £20,000 per week.
Man Utd’s latest offer is said to fall well below his expectations on a new deal, although Romano remains confident that the club will tie him down to a fresh contact.
The journalist explained via CaughtOffside: “I’m told Manchester United are very confident on new deal for Alejandro Garnacho to be agreed in the next weeks or months.
“Talks are ongoing and Man Utd feel it’s close. Real Madrid and Juventus have not started contacts to sign the Argentinian talent, as of now.”
The 18-year-old came through the Atletico Madrid academy and was signed by United in 2020. His rapid rise through the ranks means that he is now worth more than the contract he is currently on.
Man Utd need to keep Alejandro Garnacho
Erik ten Hag has done a fine job of rebuilding Man Utd so far, but losing Garnacho now would surely be a huge setback. The Dutch manager is keen on investing in the future and Garnacho’s potential is huge.
When recently asked about Garnacho, Ten Hag told the club website: “Yeah, he’s [improving] a lot. He has skill and I don’t see that many players, even in the Premier League, who have that skill, like he beats players one-on-one.
“But he learned in the last months how to play in the team and how to live and do the right things in the week, and how to have the right attitude on the training ground.
“You can see how he is acting as a team player. But his individual skills can make the difference. Also, for him, it’s to keep going in the process, it’s not done as there is a lot to come and a lot more room for improvement for him, but he can help contribute on the highest level.
“I’m really happy. It is a bonus for us, as a club, that you bring in young players who come into the squad and even come into the team. I think also it is a part of our project that has to contribute to our success.”
In the League Cup this season, Garnacho has averaged 2.3 dribbles per game which is more than any other Man Utd player. The Red Devils have a real livewire on their hands and they will be desperate to keep him.
