Manchester United’s turbulent summer continues to unfold, with the club now fielding a serious offer for left-back Tyrell Malacia—one of several players deemed surplus to requirements by head coach Ruben Amorim. As the Red Devils attempt to rebuild after a disastrous 2024/25 campaign, their transfer strategy is being hampered by the need to offload unwanted squad members before pursuing top targets.
United’s Rebuild Faces Roadblocks
After finishing 15th in the Premier League and ending the season trophyless, Manchester United entered the summer in desperate need of a squad overhaul. Although they’ve added Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and Diego Leon, major gaps remain unfilled. The club’s challenge? Offloading high-wage players not in Amorim’s plans—a task proving more difficult than expected.
United’s “bomb squad”—a term used internally for players deemed non-essential—includes high-profile names like Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, Antony, and Tyrell Malacia. So far, only Rashford has exited, moving to Barcelona on loan with a €30 million (£26m) purchase option.
Malacia Attracts Saudi Interest
Tyrell Malacia may be the next domino to fall. The Dutch left-back, who joined United in 2022, has struggled with injuries and form, making just 13 Premier League appearances since his arrival. After a loan stint with PSV Eindhoven to finish the 2024/25 season, many expected him to remain in the Eredivisie.
However, Dutch outlet Voetbal International now reports that Malacia is weighing a “concrete offer” from an unnamed Saudi Pro League club. Talks are reportedly underway between all parties involved, and a transfer could provide United with some much-needed financial flexibility heading into the final weeks of the transfer window.
Transfer Exit Key to Unlocking New Signings
Malacia’s departure, along with potential exits for other fringe players, would help clear the wage bill and allow United to resume negotiations for key additions—most notably in goal and up front.
The club had reportedly identified Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martínez as a top target to challenge or potentially replace André Onana. However, interest has cooled due to the Argentine goalkeeper’s £43 million (€50m) release clause—an obstacle United currently appear unwilling to meet.
Argentina Concerned Over Martinez Situation
While United step back, concern is growing in Argentina. According to South American sources, national team boss Lionel Scaloni is growing uneasy over Martínez’s future, especially with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon.
Reports suggest Martínez is “tempted” by a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia, and the lack of a concrete move to Manchester United has “raised alarm bells” within the Argentine camp. A switch away from the Premier League could impact his visibility and form ahead of international duty.
