Manchester United and West Ham are preparing for important discussions this weekend to finalize Aaron Wan-Bissaka transfer to the London Stadium. TEAMtalk’s transfer correspondent, Rudy Galetti, reports that the deal is in its final stages but still requires some final adjustments.
Sources indicate that a new round of talks between Manchester United and West Ham has been scheduled. The Hammers want to negotiate a lower fee for Aaron Wan-Bissaka, while Manchester United holds out for around £15 million. With less than 12 months remaining on his contract, West Ham believes they can secure Aaron Wan-Bissaka for a reduced price.
Manchester United is eager to complete the deal, as their move for Bayern Munich’s Noussair Mazraoui depends on Wan-Bissaka’s sale.
Possible Swap and Impact on Man Utd’s Transfer Plans
TEAMtalk can confirm that sporting director Dan Ashworth floated the idea of swapping Aaron Wan-Bissaka for Inter Milan full-back Denzel Dumfries. However, this plan fell through as the Dutch international is set to sign a four-year contract extension with Inter Milan.
If Wan-Bissaka’s transfer to West Ham proceeds, Manchester United will shift their focus to double negotiations with Bayern Munich for right-back Mazraoui and center-back Matthijs de Ligt. De Ligt, 24, has been a top target for United throughout the summer, especially after their hopes of signing Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite diminished.
Mazraoui and De Ligt are reportedly keen to reunite with Erik ten Hag, who managed both players during his tenure at Ajax.
Financial Considerations and Alternative Targets
Manchester United’s initial top target for the right-back position was Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong. However, Leverkusen’s valuation of over £35 million deterred United, prompting them to consider Mazraoui as a more cost-effective alternative. Personal terms for a five-year contract with the Moroccan international have already been agreed upon.
Nevertheless, Manchester United has yet to finalize an agreement with Bayern Munich for either Mazraoui or De Ligt. Their current priority is to seal the deal with West Ham for Wan-Bissaka.
In addition to these negotiations, Manchester United is also working to finalize a deal for Paris-Saint Germain midfielder Manuel Ugarte. However, PSG will only sanction his exit if the move is permanent or includes a loan with an obligation to buy.
As the weekend approaches, the outcome of these crucial talks will significantly impact Manchester United’s transfer strategy and their preparations for the upcoming season.