Manchester United’s summer transfer window has been very impressive so far and Ineos deserve credit.
Benjamin Sesko is the latest of four major signings made by Manchester United this summer, with over £200 million spent on new arrivals so far.
Rio Ferdinand praised Ineos’ recruitment – something that United have struggled to get right over the past decade.
The hierarchy at Old Trafford have not hesitated to support Ruben Amorim, and it seems United still have more business to do this summer.
Not only are United still in the market for a central midfielder and goalkeeper, but Ineos still have plenty of work to do when it comes to selling players.
Why selling Rasmus Hojlund might be a mistake for Man United
So far, Marcus Rashford’s loan move to Barcelona has been the only significant outgoing at United, meaning Ineos have failed to bring in as much cash as expected.
Alejandro Garnacho is close to joining Chelsea, but he is still on the books at United alongside Jadon Sancho and Antony with just two days to go until the Premier League season kicks off.
Another player who now looks destined to leave this summer is Rasmus Hojlund.
Hojlund was left out against Fiorentina, which hinted that he has likely played his last game for United.
AC Milan are in talks to sign Hojlund on a loan deal with an option to buy. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the total package would be worth £44 million (€51m).
It is understood that Sesko’s arrival has pushed Hojlund out of Amorim’s plans, but this feels like a sale United could live to regret.
One of the biggest problems around Hojlund was that United were often over-reliant on such a young striker. With no experienced striker to help develop him, and hardly any competition to challenge for his spot, his progress stalled.
While Sesko is an upgrade on Hojlund, he is still only 22 years old and United should have learned from their past mistakes. Selling the Dane means Ineos are risking another season with just one young, unproven striker.
Carlos Baleba is the only fix to Ineos’ Hojlund decision
For the reasons stated above, selling Hojlund this summer seems a bold decision – especially as he has stated he wants to stay and fight for his spot.
But United have made an approach for Carlos Baleba, and Brighton are standing firm on their £100 million valuation of the midfielder.
United fans are desperate to sign Baleba, but having already spent £200m this summer, the budget is restricted.
If Hojlund’s sale is being pushed so that Ineos can fund a deal for Baleba this summer, it is a risk, but one that fans would be on board with.
The money raised through Garnacho, Antony and Hojlund should be enough for Ineos to meet Brighton’s demands and bring in a brilliant central midfielder in Baleba.
However, if United miss out and end up with one less striker option, then questions will be asked.
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