Manchester United will not sign Joao Felix or Dusan Vlahovic despite Erik ten Hag’s insistence that the team urgently needs attacking reinforcements.
The Red Devils have had to rely on the likes of Alejandro Garnacho and Anthony Elanga of late, while they have been without a fit goalscorer all season.
Felix and Vlahovic have been seen as potential targets who could improve United’s prospects, either as January signings or as long-term solutions for next summer.
The Atletico Madrid striker appears to be at odds with Diego Simeone, sparking speculation that a January move could be on the cards.
Meanwhile, it has been reported that Vlahovic is seen as a striker capable of replacing Cristiano Ronaldo’s goal production.
However, according to journalist Florian Plettenberg, neither is being seriously considered by the Old Trafford hierarchy.
Earlier, he tweeted:
“I have been told that Vlahovic and Joao Félix are not a problem at Manchester United. They are not transfer targets for the club.”
#MUFC News: I have been told that Vlahovic AND Joao Félix are not a problem at Manchester United. They are not transfer targets for the club. @SkySportDE ???????? ????????
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) November 7, 2022
While either player would almost certainly improve Ten Hag’s team, neither is likely to represent good value for money.
Joao Felix was signed by Atletico for around €127m three years ago and, dispute with management or not, the La Liga giants are likely to want to recoup a large chunk of that fee for the 23-year-old.
Meanwhile, Vlahovic was only signed by Juventus in early 2022 for €82m.
While the striker has been out injured of late, when fit he remains their most dangerous attacker and any deal would come at a high cost.
Manchester United are looking for a right-back, they likely want a midfielder and possibly a proactive goalkeeper as well, as well as beef up their attack.
The money that Felix and Vlahovic would cost would probably prohibit United from managing even half of the necessary rebuilding.
Fans will hope that United are working on more strategically appropriate targets as the club looks to reshuffle the squad for Ten Hag’s needs.
