Man United aiming to beat AC Milan to Youssouf Fofana, player has “opened up” to Old Trafford move | OneFootball

Manchester United are reportedly making moves in an effort to beat AC Milan to the signature of AC Milan midfielder Youssouf Fofana.

The middle of the park is an area of the pitch Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS are believed to be keen on strengthening with less than two weeks left until the opening of the 2024/25 Premier League season.

Manuel Ugarte appeared to be United’s number one midfield target but the reliable David Ornstein recently revealed that the Red Devils abandoned their pursuit of the Uruguayan amidst Paris Saint-Germain’s excessive demands. Ornstein explained that United resolved to switch their attention to other targets.

In addition to Ugarte, Erik ten Hag’s side have also been linked to Martin Zubimendi (Real Sociedad), Sander Berge (Burnley) and Fofana.

A previous report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that Monaco want nothing less than €35m for Fofana, who has entered the final 12 years of his contract.

Alongside United, Milan and West Ham have also been mentioned as interested parties in the Frenchman.

Milan in particular are thought to be leading the race to land the 25-year-old, having already reached an agreement over personal terms with him.

According to Get Italian Football News, United are plotting to hijack Milan’s deal for Fofana.

“Premier League side Manchester United are now keen to beat Milan in their move for Monaco’s Youssouf Fofana.”

“United are now getting serious about the opportunity of signing Fofana and despite the Frenchman’s preference for the Rossoneri, the race is said to be pretty wide open right now.”

“United have already presented an ambitious project to Fofana, who wouldn’t be against the idea of playing for the English giants, who are now a ‘dangerous’ presence in the saga because for the first time, Fofana is evaluating the possibility of joining another club.”

It’s understood that there is a wide gap between Milan and Monaco with regard to Fofana’s valuation. However, the Ligue 1 club are comfortable in the knowledge that their player will not agitate for an exit.

Journalist Lica Bianchin wrote on X (formerly Twitter) about Fofana’s situation, “Manchester United are the first real threat to Milan for Youssouf Fofana.”

“Fofana has opened up to United (there is no offer yet) but still prefers Milan.”

“Monaco is firm on its positions. It can be closed but a compromise is needed. These are very important days.”

In Fofana, United would be getting a complete midfielder who excels in a number of aspects.

Last term, across Europe’s top five leagues, he ranked in the top ten percentile of central midfielders for the following per 90 metrics: passes into the final third (6.47), progressive passes (8.31), ball recoveries (7.68) and through balls (0.43).

He made 32 top-flight appearances and registered four goals and as many assists.

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