This according to Enzo Maresca as Chelsea ‘initiate Alejandro Garnacho pursuit’ as Man Utd prepare for potential £140m transfer swoop with Sir Jim Ratcliffe in support of the deal

Chelsea have reportedly joined the race to sign Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho before the January transfer window closes. This ambitious move by the Blues reflects their intent to strengthen their squad, particularly with the potential addition of the young Argentine. Chelsea are also said to be leading the chase for Kobbie Mainoo, another academy product from United, further highlighting their focus on young talents.

Manchester United are currently open to offers for all first-team players as they work to align with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules. The club’s recent expenditure exceeding £600 million under Erik ten Hag has brought financial scrutiny, forcing them to carefully manage their resources. United’s homegrown players, such as Garnacho and Mainoo, represent significant financial opportunities due to their potential to generate pure profit on the books.

Reports suggest United have placed a £70 million valuation on Garnacho and Mainoo each, although no club has yet agreed to meet this price. Napoli, however, have expressed strong interest in Garnacho, with manager Antonio Conte identifying him as a replacement for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who is set to join Paris Saint-Germain in a high-profile transfer.

Chelsea’s interest in Garnacho was recently reported by French outlet L’Equipe, with Stamford Bridge gearing up for an active end to the transfer window. Potential departures of players like Axel Disasi and Christopher Nkunku could pave the way for new additions, and manager Enzo Maresca is reportedly keen on bolstering Chelsea’s attack. The club has already initiated discussions about Garnacho, along with Borussia Dortmund forward Karim Adeyemi, as part of their transfer plans.

While Garnacho is reportedly open to a move to Napoli, the Italian club has yet to follow up on their initial approach after it was rejected by United. Whether the 20-year-old would consider Chelsea as a viable destination remains uncertain, especially as the Premier League giants intensify their pursuit.

This development adds another layer of intrigue to the transfer market as United weigh the benefits of financial relief against the potential loss of key young talents. Garnacho’s future now hangs in the balance, with Chelsea and Napoli vying to secure his signature in the closing stages of the transfer window.