Sir Jim Ratcliffe has already convinced transfer target to sign for him once, Man Utd have clear advantage

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Manchester United were linked earlier this week with a move for Luton Town midfielder Ross Barkley.

A shift in strategy is expected this summer when Ineos take control of the club’s transfer strategy. This is expected to mean less flashy moves, and some smart-thinking.

One unexpected potential deal is a possible swoop for Luton midfielder Ross Barkley, who is no spring chicken at the age of 30. But he has been one of the best performing midfielders in the Premier League this season.

With Luton staring at relegation despite their brave performances, The Sun report Ineos believe they could sign Barkley for a ‘low fee’.

Barkley impressed in Manchester United’s win over Luton in February, showing an energy which was lacking among some of the Red Devils’ midfielders.

With Christian Eriksen in the mix to be moved on this summer, lacking the energy Barkley possesses, he could be an astute acquisition.

What Ross Barkley said about Ineos

Ineos know Ross Barkley well, having signed him for French side Nice in 2022, rescuing from a tough spell at a chaotic Chelsea.

Barkley explained how United investor Sir Jim Ratcliffe‘s personal touch played a part in him signing for Nice, along with advisor Sir Dave Brailsford.

Quoted by Talksport, he explained: “They presented me with a project over multiple years. It is a club that wants to go far, that wants to be a big club at a European level.

“I managed to speak with Dave Brailsford, who showed me the growth project at the club. Jim Ratcliffe also convinced me to come here to help the team progress.”

You would imagine, then, Barkley would need no persuasion to join the exciting project Ineos plan to put together at Manchester United.

There would be detail presented on where Barkley would fit in, and the role he might play. If Ineos want him, he wouldn’t just be a number.

• READ MORE: Who is Sir Jim Ratcliffe? Net Worth, Businesses, Man Utd deal

Manchester United history with Ross Barkley

It is quite remarkable testament to how highly rated Barkley was as a teenager, that he was linked to Manchester United back when David Moyes was Everton manager and Sir Alex Ferguson was still in charge at Old Trafford.

The Express reported United were keen on Barkley way back in 2011. He has had a mixed career path since, but does boast 33 England caps and six goals at international level to his name.

There is talk of Barkley being recalled for England for Euro 2024, which might end up doing Kobbie Mainoo a favour, if it means the Manchester United youngster gets to stay behind.

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