Manchester United

Manchester United

Premier League • England

‘Work in progress’ at Man Utd to cement deal for exciting youngster following top European showing

Alejandro Garnacho, Cristiano Ronaldo, Manchester United, April 2022

Fabrizio Romano has provided an update on contract talks between Manchester United and Alejandro Garnacho following his top Europa League performance.

Garnacho has been seen as one of the most exciting talents at United’s academy for some time. Indeed, there is a real sense that he is next off the Carrington production line.

He has lit up youth competitions for the past few seasons. Indeed, the winger contributed to 10 goals in six FA Youth Cup games – a tournament United won – last season.

The fact he made his Premier League debut at 17 years of age shows the faith United have in him. As do the multiple occasions in which he has been named in the squad.

The youngster has made a few appearances from the bench in the Europa League, too. Against Sheriff Tiraspol, though, he was given his first full start.

He dazzled after having been given the opportunity to show his class from the off. Indeed, he was named man of the match for his role in the 3-0 victory.

Former United midfielder Paul Scholes referred to Garnacho as “exceptional”.

Red Devils manager Erik ten Hag also praised the youngster for his good performance.

Garnacho in line for new deal

In June, transfer insider Romano reported United were in talks with Garnacho over a new deal. Ten Hag’s side were reportedly hopeful of getting it wrapped up this year.

Romano has now provided an update into the progress of those talks. Indeed, he states that a long-term proposal – a five-year deal – has been in place since the initial reports.

In his update on the situation, he states that there is ‘work in progress’, and talks have been ongoing for months.

However, he does not state how far they may be from getting things wrapped up. United will hope that the process speeds up and that there are no bumps in the road.

Indeed, Garnacho’s contract runs out at the end of the year. After he has shown his class in a senior game from the start, they will be eager to tie him down.

Ten Hag will not want to see his prospect head off to another side rather than stay and play for him.

Bright future in store for Garnacho

United should not be fretting too much over the negotiations with Garnacho. Their academy has produced some top talents previously, and he will know the best road to becoming a great player is to stay where he is.

Should he continue to perform in the chances he is given, his game time will likely improve.

He could well see himself appearing more regularly over the course of the season.

Within the next few campaigns, it is not unlikely that he will develop into one of United’s regular stars.