“He is the best replacement for Jadon Sancho. Now Sancho is doing well at Chelsea, we need to do better and sign him now that he is not expensive”-Man Utd set to launch £48 million bid for one of the world’s best attackers after Roy Keane praised and rated him so high.
Manchester United are reportedly preparing a £48.5 million bid for a new attacking player, following high praise from club legend Roy Keane.
During the summer transfer window, United focused heavily on strengthening their defense and midfield, spending over £100 million on signings like Manuel Ugarte and Leny Yoro. Additional deals for Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui pushed their total summer expenditure beyond £150 million. Forward Joshua Zirkzee also joined from Bologna for an initial fee of £38.5 million.
However, the winger position wasn’t a priority for Erik ten Hag’s side, with players like Marcus Rashford, Amad Diallo, Antony, Alejandro Garnacho, and Jadon Sancho all capable of playing out wide. But, with Sancho moving to Chelsea on loan on deadline day, with an obligation to buy, United now find themselves potentially short in this area.
Antony has struggled to break into the starting lineup, with his only start coming in the 7-0 Carabao Cup victory over Barnsley. Meanwhile, Amad and Garnacho are competing for game time, and while Rashford is beginning to find form, United could still be lacking options on the wing by next summer.
According to Spanish outlet *Fichajes*, United are considering triggering the release clause of Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams. The 22-year-old shone on the left wing at Euro 2024, playing a key role in Spain’s tournament-winning campaign with a series of impressive performances.
Williams, known for his blistering pace, would bring a different dynamic to United’s current attacking options. Barcelona are also interested in the winger, but their financial constraints could hinder their pursuit.
Williams’ release clause is reportedly set at £48.5 million, and United are believed to be planning a move for him next summer.
During Euro 2024, Roy Keane, speaking on ITV, had high praise for Williams, saying, “Pure quality. He has pace, you can’t coach that. When he goes one-on-one against a full-back, it’s trouble.”
Manchester United’s interest in Nico Williams adds a new layer of potential attacking strength, especially considering Jadon Sancho’s loan move to Chelsea. Williams’ pace and direct style could complement United’s current wide options, particularly with Roy Keane’s glowing endorsement of his abilities during Euro 2024. If the £48.5 million release clause is triggered, Williams could offer United a versatile threat on the wing next summer, as Barcelona may struggle to compete financially for his signature.
