Manchester United are set to finalize the transfer of winger Facundo Pellistri in the coming days, following an agreement in principle. Fabrizio Romano confirmed that this move has been propelled by a clever managerial decision.
United have been highly active in the summer transfer market, and the final stretch before the August 30 deadline is expected to be equally busy at Old Trafford.
While Manuel Ugarte remains a priority in midfield, United are also seeking a new left-back to provide competition for the injury-prone Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia.
If these additions materialize, United’s tally of major summer signings will reach six. Additionally, the club is close to securing the arrival of former Arsenal academy player Chido Obi-Martin for the youth ranks.
On the departure front, Raphael Varane, Brandon Williams, and Anthony Martial have left as free agents. United have also completed permanent sales for Alvaro Fernandez (Benfica), Aaron Wan-Bissaka (West Ham), Willy Kambwala (Villarreal), Donny van de Beek (Girona), and Mason Greenwood (Marseille).
Uruguayan winger Facundo Pellistri is expected to be the next exit, as he is no longer required at Old Trafford and is in the final year of his contract. Although the club holds an option to extend his contract by a year, a permanent sale is seen as the best option for all parties.
Fabrizio Romano reported that Greek club Panathinaikos is in advanced talks to sign Pellistri. According to Romano, the deal is “almost there,” with Panathinaikos eager to finalize the transfer within the week. The move has been largely facilitated by the influence of Panathinaikos’ new manager, Diego Alonso, who previously coached Pellistri in the Uruguayan national team.
Romano emphasized that Alonso’s presence has been a crucial factor in the deal. Pellistri has reportedly agreed in principle to a four-year contract with Panathinaikos. Although the exact transfer fee remains undisclosed, it is believed that United’s asking price is around €10 million (£8.5 million).
With United boasting a strong roster of wingers, including Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, Antony, and Amad Diallo, Pellistri’s departure seems inevitable.
