Alejandro Garnacho is on everyone's lips, and it's not by chance. Still only 20 years old, the Argentine forward is one of the most valuable players for Manchester United, but his future at the club is looking increasingly shaky. Praise, rumors, and astronomical figures surround him, so what's next for this gem of the soccer world?
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Chelsea and Napoli after Garnacho
It's no secret that Garnacho has been attracting the attention of Europe's top clubs. After Napoli had their €50 million offer turned down, Chelsea entered the race and, by all accounts, isn't holding back. According to reports, the Blues management is working backstage to prepare a €60 million bid with performance-related bonuses in an attempt to convince United to let go of their young star.
Needless to say, how much Garnacho is valuable on the transfer market. London club wants to reinforce its squad with a player who, despite his young age, has already shown maturity and weight on the field.
Ruben Amorim and the uncertainty
Meanwhile, manager of Manchester United, Ruben Amorim, is as tight-lipped with his words as possible. "Anything can happen," he simply said when the future of Argentine was sought for. He perfectly knows that this market will give way to the change in matters even in space of hours. Till the very last moment while the market remained open, everything could have gone haywire.
But one thing is certain: Garnacho is an important piece for United at the moment. The fact that he started against Rangers and the words of the coach confirm it. Amorim has pointed out the growth of the player, who knows how to play in different positions on the pitch and has acquired maturity. This only underlines the impact his departure would have on the team.
The price of the gem
But everything has a price. In Garnacho's case, Manchester United appears to have set it at €70 million. That is not only a price on his talent but also on his growth and what he may become in the future.
Chelsea, on the other hand, thinks it can get it done for a lesser price. The €60 million package with bonuses attached, however, suggests that the London club is ready to make a big effort in securing the Argentine. But will that be enough to convince United?
Agents at work
While negotiations are heated up, however, Garnacho's representatives never took a free time. His agents were at Stamford Bridge watching Chelsea win their 3-1 fixture over Wolverhampton last Monday.
It does not look coincidental. Agents at Chelsea's stadium, it may mean discussions are more advanced than apparent. To a team like Chelsea, that have been heavy in reinforcements, getting Garnacho will be another statement of intent in the transfer market.
Possible departure
A hypothetical departure of Garnacho from Manchester United would be a blow both on and off the pitch: the Argentine has grown to be one of the vital pieces of the squad, and at just 20 years old, he's seen as one of the cornerstones of this team for the future.
Another, the message will be clear: no player is too big if the price is right. And while this would generate a significant amount of money for United, it will also create a question over the club's ability to retain its top prospects if European giants show interest.
An unpredictable outcome
While still a question mark over Garnacho's future, one thing is pretty clear: the next few days indeed will be big. With the transfer window still open, United will have to hold up the challenge presented by Chelsea and some other suitors.
At the same time, Garnacho and his agents will be determinant in making a final verdict. This decision will be one of the turning points for the young forward, any choice that will make a difference in his career. He will continue his development under Ruben Amorim if he decides to stay at United or a new challenge might come when he moves to Chelsea as he will prove himself to become an important star in another setting.