Manchester United have informed Saudi officials that they will not be sanctioning the sales of three first-team players to the oil-rich nation this summer. The trio of Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes, and Jadon Sancho had all been linked with moves away from the club this summer.
Since 2023, the Saudi Pro League has been an attractive destination for some of Europe's top players, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Karim Benzema. Backed by the Saudi PIF, the biggest clubs in the league have had success signing players from Europe to boost the level of the league.
The trio of Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes, and Jadon Sancho have all been linked with Saudi this summer, but news outlet Ariyadhiah has now revealed that no such moves will take place. The club will insist on keeping the players despite varying degrees of interest in a move away from Old Trafford.
Casemiro was linked with a move away from Manchester United after a less-than-ideal second season at the club. The veteran Brazilian midfielder struggled for form and fitness for large periods of the campaign, even while he was drafted at centre-back. His loss of form and poor performance cost him his place in the Brazil squad to the Copa America.
Club captain Fernandes held talks with the club at the tail end of the season regarding his future. The Portuguese star was on the radar of Saudi Pro League clubs before he committed his future to the Red Devils at the end of the 2023-24 season.
Sancho was on loan at Borussia Dortmund in the second half of the 2023-24 season after a falling-out with Erik ten Hag. The Englishman has now returned to the club for pre-season, and is expected to remain and play a role this season.
Manchester United are now set to keep the trio as part of their squad for the 2024-25 season. They have already added two new players to their squad in Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee.
Manchester United agree terms with Ligue 1 star over transfer - Reports
Manchester United have reached an agreement on personal terms with PSG midfielder Manuel Ugarte for a transfer this summer. Fabrizio Romano reports that the Uruguay international is keen to join the Red Devils as part of their summer business.
The INEOS Group have taken charge of transfer affairs at Old Trafford for the first time this summer, and are busy in the market. They have already made multiple additions to the staff and hierarchy, as well as two signings to the squad.
The Red Devils are keen on signing Ugarte this summer, especially following the exit of Sofyan Amrabat after his failed loan spell at the club. Ten Hag's side will hope that their signings help them to compete with the top sides in England and Europe.