Manchester United’s decision to sell more players than they buy this summer comes after their £225m spending spree last year. The club is under pressure to stay within Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules, and as a result, they are looking to offload several players, including their club captain Harry Maguire and Anthony Martial. Maguire, who was signed for £80m in 2019, is now valued at £22m, a 72% decrease in value, according to Transfermarkt. This decrease is due to his poor form, which was evident in his unfortunate own goal in the first leg against Sevilla.
Anthony Martial’s constant injury setbacks are becoming a hindrance, and the club is open to letting him go for around £13.2m. Additionally, other players who may face the axe include Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Brandon Williams, Eric Bailly, and Alex Telles. The club is expected to make a total of £81m in sales, which they can reinvest in new players, potentially reaching £92.5m if Diogo Dalot departs instead of Wan-Bissaka.
United’s decision to sell players rather than buy is not surprising, given the impact of the pandemic on the football industry. The club has already seen a significant decrease in revenue due to matches being played behind closed doors. Selling players will not only help them comply with FFP regulations, but it will also allow them to free up wages and invest in new players.
However, it remains to be seen which new players United will bring in this summer. The club has been linked with several high-profile names, including Jadon Sancho and Erling Haaland. But with the financial implications of the pandemic still being felt, it is uncertain if United will be able to spend big on new signings.
