Manchester United are accelerating the signing of Memphis Depay after the departure of Ronaldo.
Recent news about Manchester United breaking Cristiano Ronaldo’s contract made headlines. SPORT claims that the departure of the Portuguese international may open the door for the Premier League powerhouses to sign Memphis Depay in January.
As requested by the coaching staff, it appears the club is desperately searching for a few forwards and a midfielder. According to the report, Depay has become one of Manchester United’s top targets in their effort to bolster the ranks of their offensive unit.
Erik ten Hag, the manager of Man United, is a huge admirer of Depay. He is familiar with the player and respects how his attacking skills have improved recently. The Barcelona forward is thus one of the players that the Dutch tactician has requested.
The Premier League’s juggernauts will only consider signing Depay if he becomes a free agent in January.
At this point, Barcelona enters the picture. According to the report, the Catalans are willing to grant Depay a letter of freedom as long as they are not required to continue covering his salary for the duration of the remaining campaign.
Knowing that his role in the Barça team may continue to diminish as the season goes on, Depay himself has appeared more eager to leave Camp Nou during the winter transfer window.
It is reasonable to note that Barcelona might choose to play the waiting game before deciding whether to grant Depay a letter of freedom.
They are aware that the former Lyon starlet’s World Cup participation could significantly increase the value of his services.
Therefore, especially in the midst of the World Cup, it may be premature to make any judgments about Depay’s future.
After the tournament in Qatar, the forward himself will decide on his future. Depay’s return to Manchester United, however, may be a possibility given the club’s desperate need for offensive reinforcements in the wake of Ronaldo’s departure.