Anthony Gordon: Chelsea enter race in unlikely boost for Man United

United’s priority this summer is a revamp of the midfield, with two big-money signings expected to arrive to bolster the engine room. However, a left-winger is also high on the agenda as the club looks to restore balance in attack.

Chelsea enter the fray

Gordon, Newcastle United’s 25-year-old winger, is a player with many admirers at Old Trafford, particularly as he has the versatility to play right across the frontline. The Merseyside native is understood to be open to leaving this summer as the Magpies brace themselves for raids on their best players after a dismal campaign at St James’ Park.

Gordon has endured a difficult season domestically, with only six goals in the Premier League and none from open play since January. However, he was red-hot in the Champions League, returning 12 times in 10 games – only Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappé have scored more.

A report relayed by The Peoples Person claimed Carrick had identified Gordon as a “priority target” if he was handed the head coach role permanently – with an £80 million bid being drawn up.

However, United are not alone in the race for the England international. Both Arsenal and Liverpool are also interested, while German giant Bayern Munich are said to be leading the race after making contact with the player’s camp.

But a report by TEAMtalk reveals Chelsea have stormed into the race as they “actively explor[e] alternative options to strengthen their left flank” after patience has run out with their existing wingers, including Garnacho.

The Blues signed the 21-year-old Argentine for £40m in the final days of last summer’s window. Included in the deal was a 10% sell-on clause of any future transfer.

Predictably, Garnacho has struggled since arriving in west London, with perhaps the worst performance from a long list coming in United’s 1-0 win on Saturday night. The brutal reaction afforded to him from his former teammates tells a story fans had a sense of at Carrington, but received confirmation on at Stamford Bridge.

Indeed, Sir Jim Ratcliffe is understood to have been delighted when news of Chelsea’s bid for Garnacho reached him, with INEOS firmly vindicated in their decision to shift the academy star.

Final Thoughts – Blessing in Disguise

While it may prove a blow for the Red Devils to miss out on a long-term target like Gordon, the fact that Chelsea will shift Garnacho – entitling United to 10% of any sale – will prove a welcome boost to the summer war chest. Furthermore, Chelsea are also interested in RB Leipzig breakout star Yan Diomande and Aston Villa talisman Morgan Rogers, players both high on United’s wish list – and far more suited to the needs at Old Trafford than Gordon.

If INEOS are able to strike a big-money move for Diomande, funded partially by the windfall from Garnacho’s sale and Chelsea dropping out of the race, it would be a transfer musical chairs that United emerge as undisputed victors from.

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