Man Utd return talk ended as Memphis Depay opens shock transfer talks

Memphis Depay

Reports linking Memphis Depay with a shock return to Manchester United have been quashed after the winger was approached by a European big gun.

The 26-year-old joined current club Lyon from United back in 2017 after a tough 18 months at Old Trafford.

He failed to impress both Louis Van Gaal and Jose Mourinho before eventually being sold on for just over £14m.

But since the forward’s arrival in France he has had a new lease of life. He even helped Lyon reach last season’s Champions League semis.

However, Depay’s future has been thrown into doubt after Lyon failed to qualify for Europe’s top cup competition this term.

There have been reports that the French giants could cash in on the player to balance the books.Arsenal have been linked.

However, reports last week claimed Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was considering Depay as an alternative to Jadon Sancho. Borussia Dortmund’s refusal to lower their €120m asking price means a deal looks tricky for United.

 

Depay, who is rated at nearer €50m, would be a far cheaper alternative.

United, however, are not alone in their interest. The winger has also been linked with Inter Milan, while Barcelona, now managed by Ronald Koeman, are also keen.

However, as per France Football, all three suitors could miss out after a surprise approach from PSG.

The French outlet claims PSG sporting director Leonardo has made contact with Lyon officials over a potential deal.

With just 12 months left on his deal, Lyon are likely to cash in, though may be reluctant to strengthen a direct rival.

 

Depay open to transfer

Depay himself appears open to a move away and admits a lack of Champions League football at Lyon could force his hand.

He said: “I do not see the future, I do not know if I will do the full season here. I have been here for four years, I became captain.

Memphis Depay

“After you have to look at your career, there is no Champions League. At the moment I don’t know.”

Depay has netted 57 times for Lyon in total and netted a hat-trick in openening day win over Dijon on Friday.

“I’m really happy to have scored three goals,” he said.

“It wasn’t the best game I’ve played but we start the season with three points. That’s the most important thing.

“We’ve shown we can fight against the big teams, but we have to stay focused and win against the so-called ‘smaller’ teams. We have a lot of good players. We have to give our best to aim for the top.”

 

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