11
Manchester United were interested in four players who could play for Barcelona at Old Trafford on Thursday.
Expecting a great second leg, the two clubs will face off after an entertaining 2-2 draw.
The schedule is set to get even busier ahead with United still in four competitions with the Carabao Cup final scheduled for this Sunday.
First, there will be the Europa League playoffs, which will determine which teams qualify for the next round this week.
The Spanish outlet AS has written about four Barcelona players United have been interested in over the past few seasons.
The first player to make headlines is Ansu Fati, who has been in the spotlight lately because of his lack of chances under Xavi.
United had an offer of around €100 million rejected for the winger whose contract was expiring in the next few months at that point.
However, he soon extended his stay at the club and his current contract expired in June 2027.
“I hope to stay at Barça for many years,” Fati recently told the media.
Another player that the Red Devils were interested in was defender Ronald Araujo, who was tied up early in 2022.
However, in April of that year, he extended his contract with the club until 2026 with a €1,000 million release clause.
Frenkie De Jong, Erik ten Hag’s most wanted player in his first transfer window at the club, was also available to play on Thursday.
Many United fans dreamed of a potential arrival from the world-class Dutch national team.
However, he has made it very clear to Barcelona manager Xavi that he wants to stay at the club and has no intention of leaving.
The club has also decided to oust the midfielder, but he has been solid all summer and has been enjoying some great games lately.
He could be Barcelona’s most decisive player on Thursday.
Finally, Alejandro Barde is also linked with a move to Old Trafford this season.
United have frequently sought a new left-back, following the arrival of Alex Telles a few seasons ago and Tyrell Marasia last summer.
However, the Spanish left-back is still continuously linked to club transfers, recently revealing his admiration for the team.
In fact, the outlet claims Barca already thinks the update is tied up.
De Jong, Araujo, Fati and Balde could be on Ten Hag’s watch list this Thursday, but we hope they don’t put on their best performances.