Manchester United have many transfer regrets over the years and more recently, Julian Alvarez was a missed target for the Red Devils.
If Manchester United had listened to Ralf Rangnick’s transfer suggestions back in 2022, the Red Devils would have some world-class talents on their books.
Rangnick wanted United to sign Julian Alvarez, but the Glazer family sleepwalked through the January transfer window. Julian Alvarez ended up completing a £14m move to rivals Manchester City instead.
United missed out on Alvarez, and City went on to cash in a huge profit by selling the Argentine forward to Atletico Madrid for £82 million.
Julian Alvarez of Atletico Madrid celebrates scoring.
Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images
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Julian Alvarez brace reminds Man Utd of transfer mistake
In the latest round of Champions League football, Alvarez scored twice as Atletico hammered Tottenham 5-2 in Madrid.
It takes Alvarez’s goal tally for the season up to 16, including seven in the Champions League in 2025/26. Alvarez scored two goals from two shots and also picked up an assist, earning him a 10/10 rating via SofaScore.
Rangnick was heavily critical of United’s transfer business during his time at the club, and if the Glazers had just listened, there is a good chance that Alvarez would be wearing red at Old Trafford right now.
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United have eventually found a fix to their striker problems through Benjamin Sesko, who is enjoying a strong debut season at Old Trafford. However, with European football on the horizon, the Red Devils will need more strength and depth up front.
Alvarez’s latest comments suggest a future transfer is not off the cards.
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Record transfers graphic
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Julian Alvarez admits he could leave Atletico Madrid
Alvarez has been a big success at Atletico Madrid, with 45 goals in 98 appearances for the Spanish side since joining them in 2024.
Speaking after the Tottenham win, though, Alvarez left the door open to leave Atletico in the summer.
As quoted by Goal, Alvarez was asked if he could join a new club in the summer: “What do I know? Maybe yes, maybe no, you never know.
“I’m very happy here. It’s a question that keeps coming up, but I’m happy. I’m focused on the day-to-day, working to improve and give my all.”
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Alvarez proved at City that he is cut out for Premier League football, but ultimately he found himself behind Erling Haaland in the pecking order so decided to leave.
There are not many players who have played for City and United over the years, but not many fans would be against seeing Alvarez arrive at Old Trafford.
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