Manchester United has put forward a proposal that has surprised even FC Barcelona's management. They have not only offered 40 million euros, but also the transfer of one of their biggest prospects. The operation has gained momentum in recent hours and is already being discussed in the offices of Camp Nou.
Although the Barcelona player was not on the transferable list, the sports management is seriously considering the offer. Hansi Flick is already aware and has requested calm before making any decision. The name of the British footballer included in the deal is what changes everything.
Deco, Forced to Make Key Decisions
Flick's arrival has reordered the club's priorities. The German coach wants to strengthen several positions, but to do so, he needs to free up salary mass and generate income. Deco knows this, and that's why he is considering operations that were previously unthinkable.
The exchange proposed by Manchester United could cover two objectives at the same time: offloading a player with market value and bringing in a future asset. The problem is that the player who might leave is very beloved by the fans and is part of the young core of the project.
The English Player That Makes Everyone Doubt
Manchester United has offered as part of the operation Kobbie Mainoo, the young midfielder who has broken out this season at Old Trafford. At just 19 years old, he is already a regular starter with the 'Red Devils' and has debuted with England's senior team. His profile is very appealing to Barça due to his power, vision, and tactical maturity.
Flick believes that Mainoo could adapt very well to the Barcelona style. Additionally, he would strengthen an area of the field that could be weakened if there are more sales in the summer. The Englishman is considered one of the greatest young talents in Europe.
Although publicly Barça claims not to want to sell, privately they acknowledge the economic difficulties. An operation like this would allow them to free up salary space, bring in money, and sign a player with immediate projection. That's why Deco hasn't completely ruled out the move.
From the environment of the Barcelona player involved in the operation, there is concern. His desire is to stay, but if the club doesn't stop it, the transfer could be closer than it seems. Flick, for now, has not issued a final verdict.
The Big Sacrifice Would Be Alejandro Balde
The name that Manchester United wants at all costs is Alejandro Balde. Barça's left-back is one of the most promising in the world in his position. His speed, dribbling, and youth make him an ideal profile for the Premier League.
Balde has a contract until 2028 and a clause of 1,000 million, but that hasn't stopped United. The English club wants him as a replacement for Luke Shaw and believes that with money and Mainoo's loan, they can close the deal. Barça hasn't ruled it out, although they haven't given a definitive answer yet.
The ball is now in Joan Laporta and Deco's court. If they accept, they will lose a gem from La Masia, but they will gain liquidity and a midfielder for the future. If they reject, they will maintain their bet on Balde, but they could complicate other key operations.
Barça must decide if their priority is stability or reconstruction. And time is running out, because United won't wait too long. Will Mainoo wear the Barcelona jersey? Will Balde say goodbye? Anything can happen in the coming days.