AC Milan in talks for Striker as Manchester United prepare squad clearout | OneFootball

United’s Transfer Focus Turns to Outgoings After Sesko Arrival

Manchester United have wasted no time in switching their attention to departures after finalising the £73.7million signing of Benjamin Sesko. His arrival from RB Leipzig on a five-year deal follows big-money moves for Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, taking United’s summer attacking spend well past the £200m mark.

Sources cited by The Standard reveal United are now prioritising the sale of several high-profile names. Talks have been opened with AC Milan regarding Rasmus Hojlund, with a proposed £5.1m loan fee and an option to buy for £39m. Hojlund, who was an unused substitute against Fiorentina on Saturday, is believed to be on the radar of the Serie A club who feel they can help him “rediscover his best form after a difficult two years at United”.

Jadon Sancho remains in Borussia Dortmund’s sights, Chelsea are expected to make a formal approach for Alejandro Garnacho, while Real Betis continue efforts to secure Antony. One source described this as the “accelerated offloading of the bomb squad at Old Trafford”.

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Baleba Interest Complicated by Brighton Stance

United’s midfield interest in Brighton’s Carlos Baleba appears less straightforward. The 21-year-old is not for sale, with Brighton under no pressure to cash in. Baleba has also been sidelined with a minor knee injury since mid-July, further cooling the prospect of a deal this window.

For United, the summer rebuild remains a balance of blockbuster arrivals and trimming a bloated squad. The next few weeks will determine whether these outgoing deals can match the speed of their headline-grabbing incomings.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Manchester United fan’s perspective, this report will trigger a mix of excitement and scepticism. Securing Benjamin Sesko is a statement of intent, especially alongside Cunha and Mbeumo, but the real challenge lies in shifting those who have underperformed or no longer fit the club’s direction.

Rasmus Hojlund’s potential move to AC Milan feels like a crossroads moment. Many supporters hoped his raw promise would flourish at Old Trafford, yet two difficult seasons have stalled that dream. Sancho’s possible return to Dortmund and Antony’s link to Real Betis will split opinion, with some fans relieved and others wary about losing squad depth. Garnacho’s situation is the most contentious, as his sale to a Premier League rival like Chelsea could cause uproar.

The Baleba chase seems destined to be one for future windows, especially given Brighton’s firm stance. Overall, United’s summer is shaping into a gamble on elite attacking talent balanced by clearing out expensive assets. Whether this balance delivers results on the pitch is the question that will define the season ahead.