Manchester United appear to be broadening its horizon by scouting the South American market for the best deals ahead of the summer transfer window.
Ever since Sir Jim Ratcliffe became co-owner of Manchester United, Ineos has prioritised deals for younger players, and there are already signs that more is being done to identify talent across the world.
In January, the Reds tapped into the South American market by securing youngster Diego Leon on a five-year deal. The 17-year-old will move to Manchester this summer when his time at Paraguay side Cerro Porteno comes to an end.
After previously missing out on South American talent to Premier League rivals, United could look to explore more deals in that part of the world where there is no shortage of talent.
Furthermore, players from South America usually see their valuations increase dramatically after moving to Europe, so it’s about time United got ahead of the curve.
Man Utd face competition from Arsenal for Subiabre
It will be a busy summer for Manchester United as Ruben Amorim looks to improve his team ahead of the 2025/26 season.
The Reds need to sell players to generate funding for recruits, with several members of United’s first team deemed surplus to requirements.
United fans are unaware of which transfer targets will take priority, but signing a striker will be on the agenda.
According to Argentine reporter Sebastian Srur, Arsenal and United have expressed ‘strong’ interest in 18-year-old River Plate talent Ian Subiabre.
The River Plate starlet plays on the right wing and he impressed in the South America U20 championships as Argentina finished runners-up.
Subiabre has made six appearances for the first team, scoring one goal, but it sounds like he will be on the move before establishing himself with Los Millonarios.
United must add to their attack this summer. There’s more than enough room for a quality forward who attacks from the right wing.
Subiabre compared to Julian Alvarez
Having quickly risen through the ranks at River Plate, Subiabre is a versatile attacker, who can play on both flanks and even as a centre forward.
This adaptability could prove invaluable for Amorim’s squad, potentially adding quality and depth to the squad’s attacking options.
United’s interest in Subiabre aligns with Ineos’ approach of signing young talent. This has led to a shift in the club’s approach to transfers as seen with deals for Ayden Heaven, Leny Yoro and Patrick Dorgu.
However, one player Subiabre has previously compared himself to is former Man City forward Julian Alvarez, who scored 54 goals for River Plate before moving to the Premier League in 2022.
“I am a powerful and goalscoring forward,” Subiabre told La Pagina Millonaria. “And I am strong in one-on-one situations.
“I like to drop back and join up with my teammates and provide assists. I can also play on the right or left wing.
“Julian Alvarez is an extraordinary player. For me, he is an example. He has skill, he is a goalscorer and he is constantly pressing. He understands the game perfectly.”
Alvarez, who left City in 2024, has continued his goalscoring form at Atletico Madrid after recording 23 goals in 46 matches under Diego Simeone.
Only time will tell if Subiabre will sign for United.
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