Manchester United manager Michael Carrick
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick
Clubs that miss out on primary targets often retain hope until the final days of the window. Increased first-team responsibility can be interpreted in different ways by interested parties. Asking prices that exceed previous valuations strengthen the holding club’s position.
Young academy graduates who have signed long-term contracts and expressed contentment usually remain difficult to prise away. Defensive frailties exposed in opening fixtures accelerate the search for reinforcements. Alternative options in other leagues provide parallel avenues.
READ MORE: Arsenal set to announce two new signings with one more to follow
Manchester United still believe they can sign Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly before the transfer window closes. The 19-year-old’s future appeared settled after Mikel Arteta stated he was 100 per cent confident the Hale End graduate would remain at his boyhood club.
Lewis-Skelly has made a strong start to the season with impressive displays in the Community Shield win over Manchester City and the 3-0 victory against Coventry. He has also declared himself happy to stay at Arsenal after signing a new long-term contract 12 months ago.
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According to reports, United sources feel the situation is less clear-cut. They claim the midfielder’s recent increased role is linked to Martin Zubimendi’s form and the time required for Mikel Merino to regain full fitness after the World Cup. Arsenal, meanwhile, do not believe any suitor is prepared to meet an asking price likely to exceed £50million.
United are seeking a new left-back after defensive issues were exposed in their opening defeat to Hull City. They have been told Lewis Hall is not for sale by Newcastle, while Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde has emerged as a more realistic alternative at around €45million.
Supporters will note the continued external interest with confidence. Arteta’s public stance and the player’s own comments suggest Lewis-Skelly is going nowhere. Arsenal remain focused on integrating their new signings and managing the final days of the window while the youngster continues to impress.
Viktor Gyokeres Ballon D'Or
Viktor Gyokeres Ballon D'Or
Nottingham Forest
Nottingham Forest