The Peoples Person

Manchester United are in line to receive a huge windfall this summer as their Premier League rivals plot a bombshell raid to sign Mason Greenwood, according to a new report.

A Sell-On Clause

Greenwood has established himself as one of the best players in France since joining Olympique de Marseille in the summer of 2024, after facing serious legal troubles in England.

The 24-year-old forward’s position at Old Trafford had become untenable, with United forced to sanction his sale to the Ligue 1 side for £26.7 million as a result.

A 50% sell-on clause was included in the deal, entitling the Red Devils to half of the profits Marseille may bank from any future transfer.

Greenwood enjoyed a strong debut year in France, scoring 22 goals and providing six assists – putting him level in Ligue 1 with Paris Saint-Germain superstar Ousmane Dembele. His sophomore campaign is going even better as he has already matched his goals total with three months of the season left.

Mason Greenwood: 2025/26 statistics

CompetitionMatchesGoalsAssists Ligue 119134 Champions League831 Trophee des Champions110 Coupe de France353 Total31228

In December, Marseille boss Roberto De Zerbi – a frontrunner to be United’s head coach next season – claimed Greenwood has the “potential to win the Ballon d’Or”.

This form has put a number of clubs across Europe on red-alert over a potential deal, including Spanish giants FC Barcelona and Atletico Madrid. There have even been reports of a blockbuster switch to the Saudi Pro League, with Al-Hilal said to have tabled a €100m bid in January.

A return to England?

Rather than a move to a new country beyond France, Fichajes reveals Greenwood could be about to agree an explosive return to English football as Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur have held talks to sign the forward.

The report states both of United’s rivals are prepared to table £78 million bids to prise him from the Orange Vélodrome stadium.

Liverpool view Greenwood as an “ideal candidate” to bolster their misfiring attack, with Mohammed Salah edging closer to a move to Saudi Arabia this summer. Similarly, Tottenham Hotspur are “closely monitoring” the Englishman who they believe “fits perfectly” into their style.

If either club were to strike a £78m deal with Marseille, United would receive around £26m from the deal – a massive boost ahead of a pivotal transfer window at Old Trafford this summer.

Final Thoughts

Greenwood’s ability as a footballer is beyond doubt, with the Carrington graduate’s form in Marseille showcasing his lethality in front of goal, with either foot from any area of the pitch.

However, the controversy which led to his departure from United in the first place will be immediately reignited were he to return to the Premier League this summer – which seriously calls into question whether Liverpool or Tottenham Hotspur would be willing to invite this outrage on themselves.

United are unlikely to be expecting a significant windfall from their former player this summer, nor will they be expecting to be facing him in a red or white shirt next season.

Feature image Miguel Medina via Getty Images

Manchester United have been handed a big advantage in the race to sign Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, following a major transfer shift by Tottenham Hotspur.

United want Hackney

Having spent the bulk of their summer budget on bolstering the attacking department, United are now expected to shift their attention to midfield reinforcements either before the close of the month or most likely, later in the summer.

Casemiro is expected to leave upon the expiry of his contract, while there is also uncertainty over the future of Manuel Ugarte, who has struggled for consistency since joining the club from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024.

Some of the players United continued to be linked with include Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest), Carlos Baleba (Brighton and Hove Albion), Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace), Joao Gomes (Wolves) and of course, Hackney.

Hackney is widely seen as a top Championship midfielder, renowned for his solidity, technical skill, and progression in possession. United are not the only party keeping tabs on the player. A report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that Newcastle are also keen on adding him to their ranks.

He has played a key part in Middlesbrough’s bid to clinch automatic promotion this season, with the club currently in second place in the Championship table. Hackney has scored three goals and provided twice as many assists in the 27 appearances he’s made.

According to CaughtOffside, Tottenham’s signing of Conor Gallagher from Atletico Madrid has led them to pause their interest in Hackney, presenting United with a prime opportunity.

Hackney transfer update

CaughtOffside claim that Tottenham’s interest in Hackney has now “cooled significantly.” The North London outfit have halted their pursuit, with attention now shifting to other areas of the pitch.

The report further notes, “Middlesbrough’s stance throughout the window has been unwavering, Hackney is not for sale unless a club meets their minimum £30 million valuation, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.”

“Despite growing Premier League interest, the Championship side have no intention of accepting cut-price offers in January, particularly while they remain in the promotion race.”

“Sources around the club say they do not expect anyone to meet their asking price this month, and would prefer to review offers in the summer, especially if promotion is missed.”

It’s understood that United are still firmly in the race to sign the 23-year-old. His previous relationship with Michael Carrick, who was recently named the Red Devils’ interim boss, has only further fuelled speculation. Carrick coached Hackney at Boro.

Other clubs that are lurking include Everton, Fulham and Brighton.

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Manchester United’s plans to secure the services of Udinese defender Oumar Solet are under threat from Tottenham Hotspur. The Red Devils have struggled due to defensive frailties this season, and have already conceded 29 goals in 19 Premier League games, the second-most after Bournemouth among the top 15 of the league.

While the attack has improved after a summer of reinforcements – only Arsenal and Manchester City have scored more than Amorim’s team this season – it is clear that the backline needs attention.

The English giants were perhaps aware of their situation, which is why they reportedly considered a move for Solet before the start of the current season, but the transfer failed to materialise.

United’s long-term target

Solet has entered the final 18 months of his contract with Udinese and is yet to sign a new deal. This season, the 25 year old has appeared 23 times in all competitions for the Serie A club, all but one of which were starts.

Oumar Solet Stats: 2025/26 Season

CompetitionMatchesGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Serie A2011--1,621' Italy Cup3----261' Total2111--1,882'

Source: Transfermarkt.

Solet is a physical defender adept at playing in a back three, which makes him a suitable fit for Amorim’s 3-4-3 system.

The Frenchman’s ball-playing ability also makes him a good addition to the Red Devils’ squad, but it now appears that prising him away will not be a walk in the park.

Tottenham Hotspur eyeing Solet

According to Caught Offside, Tottenham Hotspur want to take Solet to the Premier League this month.

“Tottenham Hotspur are preparing a winter move for Udinese centre-back Oumar Solet. The club wants fresh competition for the Micky van de Ven–Cristian Romero pairing, and speculation around a possible Radu Dragusin exit is pushing Spurs to add depth at the back.”

“Interest in England goes beyond Tottenham. Sources close to the situation have informed Caughtoffside that Chelsea and Crystal Palace have watched him live, while Manchester United and West Ham are tracking him as a long-term target.”

“In Italy, Inter, AC Milan and Roma have delivered positive reports, highlighting his reliability in transition and dominance in the air.”

The report adds that Udinese could ask for a premium fee to let him go in the winter, although they could be open to a loan deal with a purchase option.

The player, meanwhile, could be tempted by the chance to move to the Premier League, with Chelsea reportedly also in the race.

Final Thoughts

United have dropped 12 points from winning positions this campaign, their joint-most points dropped at the halfway stage of season since the inception of the Premier League.

As such, defensive reinforcements could be the need of the hour, even though the midfield is expected to be the main focus of the Red Devils’ transfer business in 2026. INEOS, there, could be tempted to hijack Spurs’ move for Solet, especially with Harry Maguire’s contract set to expire this summer.

It is increasingly appearing as though Conor Gallagher may not remain at Atlético Madrid for the rest of the 2025–26 season.

Having departed Chelsea in the summer of 2024 with ambitions of establishing a reputation in Spanish football, Gallagher enjoyed a respectable debut campaign.

However, the Englishman has not managed to build on that initial promise.

Gallagher’s game‑time struggles

The 25‑year‑old has struggled to secure a regular place in Diego Simeone’s starting line‑up.

Out of his 18 La Liga appearances this season, he has started only four matches, which is far too few for a player determined to force his way into Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the FIFA 2026 World Cup.

Moreover, with midfielders such as Elliot Anderson, Declan Rice, Adam Wharton, and Alex Scott featuring almost every week, Gallagher’s prolonged spells on the bench do him no favours in the Three Lions’ selection race.

As a result, the Chelsea academy graduate now needs to move to a club where he can play consistently.

Atlético open the door

According to a report relayed by The Peoples Person, Gallagher recently held talks with Simeone to discuss his situation. Following that meeting, it is claimed that Atlético will now allow him to leave in January.

On Wednesday, Teamtalk reported that United and Tottenham Hotspur have emerged as frontrunners. Consequently, with the battle lines drawn, the focus now shifts to which of the two clubs can prevail.

Wages the decisive factor

Dean Jones has suggested that one key factor will ultimately decide the race: Gallagher’s wages.

Via Teamtalk, he explained:

“Conor Gallagher’s loan move potential could depend on how much Atlético Madrid are willing to continue to pay towards his wages.”

“Sources indicate, though, that the player’s high wages mean a loan switch is not straightforward.”

“Gallagher earns up to £200,000‑a‑week, and whether that figure is subsidised could make a difference to whether he lands back in the Premier League.”

Therefore, from these claims, it is clear that if the Red Devils want to win the race, they must present an irresistible proposal to Atlético regarding how his wages are handled.

United’s midfield plan

Further, according to Jones, INEOS want Gallagher this winter, and then they will secure another top midfielder in the summer as they look to rebuild United’s engine room.

So Gallagher is INEOS’ top winter target, with Rúben Neves lined up as the fallback option should a deal collapse.

Ultimately, if Gallagher truly is the priority, then United have a clear path: resolve the wage issue and seize the opportunity to bring him back to the Premier League.

Featured image Aitor Alcade via Getty Images

Manchester United put in a respectable performance in their 2-1 defeat at Aston Villa, who entered the clash on a nine-game winning streak in all competitions.

United dominated possession and had more shots on target away from home. Still, Villa extended their sublime run, owing to two brilliant goals from Morgan Rogers.

Matheus Cunha stepped up with a goal, but that proved not enough in the absence of Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo. Bruno Fernandes was also taken off at the break due to a hamstring injury, forcing Ruben Amorim to hand a senior debut to Shea Lacey at a challenging territory.

The club’s current situation going forward explains their accelerated efforts to sign Antoine Semenyo.

The Ghana attacker is comfortable on either wing as well as up top. He combines his pace, physicality and ball-striking to make a difference in the final third.

Manchester United in talks to sign Antoine Semenyo

According to Fabrizio Romano, United and Manchester City are “pushing” to sign Semenyo from Bournemouth in January.

The Italian journalist claims both Manchester clubs had “direct contacts for Semenyo” over the weekend to understand his situation at Vitality Stadium.

CompetitionAppearancesGoalsAssistsYellow CardsMinutes Played Total (all)178341485' Premier League168341440' EFL Cup100045′

Recently, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming the 25-year-old’s contract with the Cherries includes a release clause for the winter window, set at £60m plus £5m in add-ons. However, his suitors must “wrap up a deal” with Bournemouth by 10 January.

Semenyo turns down Spurs move

Speaking to NBC Sports, highly-reputable journalist David Ornstein suggested that United and City are “emerging as leading contenders” for Semenyo’s signature.

Ornstein added that Tottenham Hotspur were “very keen” to sign the Bournemouth talisman and were prepared to pay him a “significant salary”.

However, the Ghanaian star “politely” rebuffed their approach, as he is focusing on joining United or City.

Liverpool are said to have great admiration for him, but they are yet to make a serious move. However, it will be worth keeping an eye on Alexander Isak’s injury. A lengthy layoff could force the Reds into a panic.

Featured image Lewis Storey via Getty Images

Manchester United, under INEOS, have been keen to bring on board some of the finest young talents. The hope is that, with these prodigies, United are assembling a super team capable of eventually restoring the club to its dominant era.

It is this very transfer policy that has seen the Red Devils linked with some of the brightest prospects across Europe.

Young talents on United’s radar

Cristian Orozco, Jeremy Monga and Said El Mala are among the names repeatedly surfacing in United’s gossip columns. As these links to young talents continue to gather pace, fresh attention has now turned towards FC Köln’s left‑wing sensation, El Mala.

Said El Mala on the rise

El Mala is one of the teenage sensations taking the German football scene by storm. The 19‑year‑old has already registered six goals and three assists in 14 Bundesliga appearances; these are impressive numbers, though his performances have arguably been even more striking.

The young German has tormented Köln’s opponents with his ability to cut inside from wide areas onto his favoured right foot, creating and scoring with equal menace. His quick acceleration, confident one‑on‑one skills, and composed finishing have made him a constant threat.

United’s keen pursuit

United are eager to add him to their ranks, with The Peoples Person relaying reports that the Red Devils are prepared to spend around €30–40 million to secure his services.

While that report noted Tottenham Hotspur as rivals for his signature, United may already have been handed a clue on how to win the race.

El Mala and his brother Malek: inseparable

Apparently, if United are to convince El Mala to join, they may need to complete a double swoop that also brings his brother Malek to M16.

Sky Sports Germany, discussing El Mala’s failed move to Borussia Dortmund, drops a massive hint on how United can win the race. They write:

“El Mala has now explained why he turned down BVB: Dortmund only wanted to sign him in 2024, not his brother Malek, who is one year older. ‘That settled it for me,’ El Mala said.”

Köln ultimately won the race, with scouts recognising the brothers’ bond and moving decisively.

The ball is in United’s court

Looking ahead to 2026, Tottenham Hotspur or United, whichever club wants El Mala most, may have to consider signing Malek too.

It could be a gamble, but with five goals in five games for Köln II, Malek is beginning to look a decent prospect in his own right.

If El Mala continues his resurgence, he and his brother could well make the leap to the Premier League in 2026. Together, they might just be the latest young talents ready to end up illuminating United’s bright future.

Feature image Alexander Hassenstein via Getty Images

Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly made a big move in an effort to beat Manchester United and other competitors to the signature of Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo.

United remain interested in Semenyo

During the summer transfer window, United explored a move for Semenyo as part of their bid to bolster the attacking department.

Semenyo enjoyed a brilliant 2024/25 campaign with Bournemouth, notching 11 goals and five assists in the Premier League. He has started this season in exquisite form and currently boasts six goals and three assists.

United and Spurs approached Bournemouth over a potential deal for Semenyo but both clubs withdrew from the race to sign him after becoming aware of his prohibitive asking price. United turned their attention to Bryan Mbeumo, who joined from Brentford for £65m.

However, it’s believed that United continue to monitor Semenyo, whose excellent form has attracted a growing list of admirers.

A report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that United are willing to offer Semenyo a contract. He signed a new contract which contains a release clause of £60m plus £5m in bonuses.

According to Sky Sports, Spurs are stepping up their interest in the Ghana international ahead of January.

Spurs aiming to win Semenyo race

Sky claim, “Tottenham are intensifying their interest in Antoine Semenyo ahead of the January transfer window. Spurs want to sign a left winger and are looking to get ahead of competition for the Bournemouth forward.”

“Spurs appear more ready to pay what is required to land Semenyo this time around, but they face competition from City and Liverpool.”

Sky further note that Arsenal have also kept tabs on Semenyo but they’re unlikely to make a definitive move to snap him up.

Given the depth of options for the wide left attacking role, strengthening this area is not a pressing concern for the league leaders.

From United’s perspective, it is concerning that Spurs are ready to meet Semenyo’s asking price now, while they themselves seem content to wait for the greater financial flexibility of the summer window.

Featured image Ryan Pierse via Getty Images

Manchester United got back to winning ways against Crystal Palace, showing some steel to come from behind to snatch a 2-1 win.

The goals came from Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount, but the performance was driven from the midfield by Casemiro.

Priority position

Nevertheless the Brazilian has had his fair share of underwhelming performances and it is clear the veteran is in the twilight of an illustrious career.

Manuel Ugarte was brought in to challenge the 33-year-old and ultimately take over from him, but it hasn’t worked out for the former PSG man.

As such, the Red Devils are widely reported to be viewing a new midfielder as a transfer priority, either in January or in the summer.

Shortlist assembled

United have long been planning for a big signing in that position, to the point that fans have been frustrated not to see movement there sooner.

The club were reportedly close to signing Carlos Baleba last summer before being scared off by Brighton and Hove Albion’s nine-digit asking price.

Links to the Cameroonian have not gone away despite his poor form this season, and he has been joined on the shortlist by the likes of Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton and Joao Gomes.

Spurs enter the race

That downturn in performances has led to speculation the 21-year-old’s price may be reduced ahead of an anticipated transfer, and according to CaughtOffside Tottenham Hotspur have sensed an opportunity to go for him.

The outlet claim that Spurs have joined the race, but also that Brighton will stick to their €100m valuation – it is implied that the London club wouldn’t meet this, and United are also likely to struggle.

United and Spurs are therefore named as “the main two teams to watch in the race for Baleba”, and CaughtOffside indicate that the youngster’s bad form is viewed in the industry as a blip rather than a permanent black mark.

Final thoughts

A CaughtOffside source says that the Seagulls “don’t see Baleba’s recent performances as a huge concern” and that “any clubs thinking about a cut-price deal can forget about it”.

It makes sense that the clubs involved are looking beyond a dodgy few months in a young player’s career, and it would not be a surprise to see United close an expensive deal for him next year.

But equally the Red Devils could turn to an alternative target, meaning there is no reason for Spurs not to stay in touch in this fast-moving situation.

Featured image Ryan Pierse via Getty Images

Manchester United will welcome back one injured star ahead of the all-important Premier League contest against Everton on Monday.

Kobbie Mainoo, who missed the Tottenham Hotspur game due to knock he had picked up in training, is in contention to be named as part of the matchday squad as per Centredevils.

He returned to team training on Saturday, and has impressed coaches with his dedication and professionalism.

“Staff within the club have been extremely impressed with Kobbie Mainoo’s professionalism and his attitude to training this season.

Mainoo back in training

“The midfielder was out with a knock in the Red Devil’s last game against Tottenham Hotspur. Kobbie Mainoo has returned to group training today and is now in contention to return to the Manchester United squad.

“If he does end up making the squad, his return will be seen as a positive amongst United fans.”

The Englishman is yet to start a single Premier League game this campaign, and due to his lack of minutes, he has lost his place in the national team.

The Carrington graduate is keen to play in next year’s World Cup, which is why he had asked to leave in the summer. INEOS had turned down his request back then.

United cannot afford to lose him

Should the situation not improve, the 20-year-old is expected to ask to leave in January as well. There are multiple clubs chasing his signature.

Napoli are the frontrunners, but they are eyeing a loan with an obligation while the Red Devils will only sanction a dry loan as they do not want to lose the talented midfielder.

A meeting between the co-owners and Kobbie Mainoo is expected, and should he leave, the 20-time English league champions will need to find alternatives in the market.

Hopefully, that does not come to pass and Amorim finds space for him in the playing XI. The departures of Amad and Bryan Mbeumo for AFCON could open up a slot.

Feature image Alex Livesey via Getty Images

Ruben Amorim will be hoping to receive backing in the winter transfer window, and if INEOS were to deliver one of the Premier League’s most in-form stars, Antoine Semenyo, what a statement that would be.

With six goals and three assists already to his name, Semenyo has enjoyed one of the brightest starts to the campaign. His explosive form may have left some United fans frustrated that the club failed to pull off a deal in the summer.

United had worked on a Semenyo swoop ahead of summer 2025

Before the Ghana international signed fresh terms with Bournemouth, it is claimed INEOS made a concerted effort to bring him in.

Amorim himself reportedly took Semenyo out for a meal in London at the end of the season to judge his character.

It is suggested that personal terms were then agreed between United and the player.

However, the Red Devils remained resolute, refusing to exceed their £55 million valuation of the player. With Tottenham Hotspur also circling, Bournemouth saw an opportunity to drive up the asking price.

Interestingly, it was not the issue with the transfer fee that scuppered the deal. The deal breaker was Semenyo realising his proposed United salary would be less than 70 percent of what Matheus Cunha was set to earn.

Bournemouth, learning of the situation, responded swiftly, offering Semenyo a tempting package that convinced him to commit his future to the Vitality Stadium until 2030.

While his new deal appeared to shut the door on any move in the near future, murmurs of a release clause kept the suitors hopeful.

Release clause: the details

Initially shrouded in mystery, the specifics of Semenyo’s release clause have now been laid bare courtesy of The Athletic’s David Ornstein.

Writing for the UK outlet, the transfer guru revealed:

“Bournemouth reluctantly accept they may be powerless to prevent Antoine Semenyo from leaving the club as soon as January.

“Suitors were told during the previous market that the fee required to secure Semenyo was around £70million ($92.2m), whereas the sale price for the winter is now formally set at £65m.

“It must be activated by a specific date, which would give Bournemouth a couple of weeks to replace their best player, and is available to any team.”

Perfect signing, if United pull it off

Given his growing influence, this is a transfer opportunity United fans will hope INEOS approach with intent.

With the left wing-back position remaining shaky for much of the season, Semenyo could offer a dynamic solution if deployed there.

Yet, as straightforward as the release clause may seem, signing him will not be as simple as triggering it. The Ghanaian is attracting interest from nearly every top Premier League side.

United face a battle with Liverpool, Manchester City, and Spurs for his signature. Ultimately, it may come down to who moves first and, more crucially, who Semenyo wants.

Featured image Ryan Pierse via Getty Images