Alejandro Garnacho's anticipated move to Chelsea is nearing completion, with the transfer potentially ranking as the fourth-largest sale in Manchester United's history. The deal, reportedly worth £40 million, includes a 10% sell-on clause for Manchester United.
Chelsea have been actively pursuing Garnacho, and have seemingly reached a breakthrough in negotiations after weeks of discussions. The player has reportedly agreed to a seven-year contract with the Blues, having turned down offers from other clubs, including Bayern Munich, Bayer Leverkusen, Napoli, and Saudi Pro League teams. Garnacho reportedly favored a move to Stamford Bridge. He is expected to undergo a medical on Friday and could be presented at Chelsea's home match against Fulham on Saturday.
Manchester United reportedly valued Garnacho at £50 million initially, while Chelsea's first offer was closer to £30 million. The agreed £40 million fee represents a compromise between the two clubs.
To facilitate the Garnacho transfer, Chelsea are reportedly making moves to balance their finances. Christopher Nkunku is in talks to join AC Milan in a deal worth around £36 million, and Nicolas Jackson is nearing a loan move to Bayern Munich with an obligation to buy next summer. These departures would free up funds and squad space for Garnacho's arrival. Chelsea are also reportedly looking to offload other players, including Raheem Sterling, Ben Chilwell, Axel Disasi, and David Datro Fofana.
Garnacho's impending transfer to Chelsea marks a significant moment for both clubs. Chelsea are acquiring a highly-rated young winger who could bolster their attacking options for years to come. Manchester United, on the other hand, are parting ways with a promising academy graduate, but the £40 million fee will provide a significant boost to their finances and allow them to reinvest in other areas of the squad.
Garnacho's departure also signifies a change in approach at Manchester United. Manager Ruben Amorim felt Garnacho wanted a "different thing with a different leadership," suggesting a potential clash of styles or personalities. Amorim stated that "sometimes things don't work out" and that it was "clear that Garnacho wants a different thing,".
If the transfer is completed for £40 million, Garnacho would become the fourth-biggest sale in Manchester United's history. Based on available data, the top three sales are:
This transfer would also represent the most profitable sale of an academy graduate for Manchester United, as the £40 million fee would be pure profit on the books.
