Manchester United

Tom McCoy
BBC Sport journalist

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Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo is a man in demand after 20 Premier League goals in 2024-25 - the first time he has scored 10 times or more in a top-flight season.

That was despite an expected goals total for the campaign of 12.3, meaning he outperformed his xG by 7.7.

Historically, that level of clinical finishing has rarely proved repeatable.

In the past five Premier League seasons, just 14 players have overperformed their xG by at least five goals. The only player to do so more than once is Tottenham's Son Heung-min, in 2020-21 and 2021-22.

That doesn't make Mbeumo, who consistently ranks highly for chances created, any less of an asset to a new team. But it could mean clubs chasing him pay a bit of a premium for his signature and perhaps risks inflating expectations from supporters.

The Cameroon international, 25, is linked with a move to Manchester United - who have made an improved bid worth £60m. The Old Trafford side have already signed Matheus Cunha, another player who dramatically surpassed his xG last term.

The Brazilian's 15 goals for Wolves came from an xG of 8.6, with only Mbeumo and Chris Wood of Nottingham Forest (6.6) recording bigger differences in 2024-25.

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"Most defenders we played against hated playing against the two of us."

Those are the words of Wayne Rooney, reflecting on his time playing alongside Carlos Tevez in a special episode of the Football Daily podcast about the divisive Argentine great.

Tevez spent two trophy-laden years at Old Trafford, winning two Premier League titles, the Champions League, the Carabao Cup and the Club World Cup.

"When Carlos joined Manchester United, there was a lot of talk about whether Carlos and I could play up front together," said Rooney. "I was really excited when we signed him.

"We were similar in ways how we played - both worked hard and could both play as a nine, both play off the forward as well.

"We had a really good understanding and chemistry on the pitch, off the pitch.

"I used to pick him up to take him to the airport before Champions League games. It was interesting actually because we couldn't really have a conversation. I think his English was better than he let on.

"He's a player you'd always want on your team and he scored some great goals for us, at big moments for us as well. Two years at Manchester United - two league titles, the Champions League... he was a massive part of that.

"I think Carlos was my favourite strike partner to play alongside.

"Most defenders we played actually hated playing against the two of us and we could feel that. We knew we were nasty as well.

"Very instinctive, intense, off the cuff. Anything could happen at any moment."

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Tevez's time at Old Trafford ended in controversy, with a move to city rivals Manchester City and the iconic 'Welcome to Manchester' billboard that followed.

"When Carlos moved to Man City, I was gutted to be honest and I'm pretty sure Carlos wanted to stay at Manchester United," Rooney added.

"At the time, City were trying to build, become competitive and win titles. I knew that he'd be a massive part of that because of the ability he has and I think we saw that when he went there.

"He had some great times at Manchester City so I was devastated. I would have really liked for him to stay longer and to continue to play together."

Listen to the full podcast here

Juventus are prepared to offer 25-year-old Serbia striker Dusan Vlahovic and 27-year-old Brazil midfielder Douglas Luiz as part of a deal for Manchester United winger Jadon Sancho. (Gazzetta dello Sport - in Italian), external

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Simon Stone
Chief football news reporter

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Jonny Evans is in line to remain at Manchester United in a staff role after his playing contract expired at the end of the season.

While it was assumed Northern Ireland centre-back Evans would retire, the 37-year-old has been determined to assess all his options, mindful he did not want to leave his base in the north-west of England.

It is understood Evans is in advanced talks with United over a role that would see him look after the loan deals put in place for younger players.

In their retained list announced earlier this month, United had 33 younger players under contract, a significant proportion of whom will be loaned out during the 2025-26 season.

England Under-19 forward Ethan Wheatley may fall into that category, with United keen to avoid the striker suffering a similar experience to his stint at Walsall in the second half of last season, when he ended up playing on just four occasions.

Evans was the last remaining player at United to have been picked for a league game by Sir Alex Ferguson.

Goalkeeper Tom Heaton was named on the bench on a number of occasions at the start of his career but never made an actual first-team appearance.

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We asked for your views on Alejandro Garnacho's social media post, which featured an image of him wearing an Aston Villa shirt with Marcus Rashford's name on the back.

Here are some of your comments:

Lee: It's all about maturity and professionalism and I'm sorry to say he's displaying neither here. He is being paid what for most people would be a life changing wage every week and United have played a huge part in his life. It may be time to move on but he should still display professionalism as he is supposed to be a role model and should respect the club. If he wants to sulk, do it in private.

Steve: A storm in a teacup. Blown out of all proportion as Garnacho's on his way anyway. He wasn't disrespectful to United and some fans are just too thin-skinned.

Andy: 'Tone deaf' is too generous — Garnacho knew exactly what he was doing. Wearing a Rashford shirt between a Ferrari and Lamborghini on holiday isn't a tribute, it's a flex. It screams entitlement. These lads aren't misunderstood, they're pampered, overpaid, and allergic to accountability. Rashford, Sancho, Garnacho — more worried about image than impact. United's problem isn't ability, it's attitude. Zero integrity. Zero respect.

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Mark: A mountain out of a molehill, get on with it.

Matt: It's a silly move on his part. Doesn't he realise that he's making himself look less desirable to potential suitors? He may well end up in the exact same position as Rashford with too many question marks over his attitude leaving clubs to look elsewhere.

Paul: With the sad state of the world at present, people are concerned that Garnacho wore his friend's shirt while in holiday! He does have the right to feel aggrieved, he should have started the Europa League final. Hope he stays, there's so much more to come from him, he just needs a hug.

Simon Stone
Chief football news reporter

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Alejandro Garnacho is still a Manchester United player but it seems he has checked out of life at Old Trafford.

Maybe his attitude is understandable given Ruben Amorim told him before the final Premier League game of the season he could find himself another club.

Garnacho did not appear particularly engaged during the post-season trip to Malaysia and Hong Kong and has now decided it is a good idea to allow the public to see a picture of him wearing a shirt of a rival club – albeit with the name of team-mate – and fellow Amorim outcast – Marcus Rashford – on the back.

The 20-year-old presumably thinks his bridges are already burned as far as Amorim and United are concerned but it won't make it easier to sell him.

Former club Atletico Madrid have been mentioned as one potential destination, although their current focus is on salvaging their Club World Cup campaign, as have Chelsea, although they are keen on Borussia Dortmund's Jamie Gittens.

It is another couple of weeks until United return for pre-season training but it is hard to see Garnacho playing any meaningful part in that. With the Argentine, Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Antony, Amorim could find himself with his own version of Chelsea's 'bomb squad', a very expensive, well-paid group of players he has no use for.

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BBC Sport's Chief Football reporter Simon Stone says Alejandro Garnacho's recent social media post will not come without backlash from Manchester United supporters.

Sources have told BBC Sport that it is nothing more than support for his team-mate - but we want to know what you think.

Do you think Garnacho was wrong for this social media post, or is it being blown out of proportion by some Manchester United fans?

Tell us here

Simon Stone
Chief football news reporter

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England endured a frustrating group stage exit from the European Under-19 Championships thanks to Germany's injury-time winner against Norway.

But Manchester United striker Ethan Wheatley had a decent tournament, scoring twice after surprisingly being left out of the starting line-up for the opening draw with Norway.

Wheatley has now started his summer break but will return to United for pre-season training in July with his short-term future still undecided.

The 19-year-old had a frustrating loan spell at Walsall at the end of last season, making just four appearances, and only one, as a second half substitute, from 1 February, before returning to United for the end of their Premier League 2 play-off campaign.

At the same time, Chido Obi made his first-team breakthrough and now United are looking to add Bryan Mbeumo and, potentially, another number nine to Ruben Amorim's squad in addition to Matheus Cunha.

It is acknowledged Wheatley needs to play games which suggests another loan move is on the horizon for a player who signed a contract to 2028 as recently as March.

But after the Walsall experience, it is crucial the next loan, if that is the chosen route, is the right one.

Simon Stone
Chief football news reporter

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Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford are kindred spirits in a way.

Both are hugely talented players who have been deemed surplus to requirements by Amorim and the belief is the initial post – and response – are a way of offering public support in a period of time where they are both looking for other clubs.

Chelsea are admirers of Garnacho but it remains to be seen whether their pursuit of Jamie Gittens from Borussia Dortmund closes off that avenue out of Old Trafford.

There are rumours of the 20-year-old returning to his former club Atletico Madrid this summer and there will be other suitors.

However, Alejandro Garnacho's post showing his support for team-mate Rashford by posing in his Aston Villa shirt on holiday - which he posted on his social media - does not come without fall-out.

Firstly, what effect will it have on the fee United can command for a player who has made such a provocative gesture?

Secondly, it hardly seems plausible Amorim will bring Garnacho back into the first-team fold when his squad return to training in July, let alone consider him for the three-match trip to the United States at the end of the month.

Read the full news story

Manchester United are showing an interest in 25-year-old Fiorentina and Italy striker Moise Kean, whose €52m release clause (£44.5m) is valid from 1-15 July. (La Gazzetta dello Sport - in Italian), external

Meanwhile, a move from Juventus for 25-year-old Manchester United winger Jadon Sancho depends on whether the Italian club sign Francisco Conceicao from Porto. (Corriere dello Sport - in Italian), external

Want more transfer stories? Read Monday's full gossip column

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Manchester United have confirmed that Nick Cox, the club's head of academy, is leaving after nine years of service.

Cox leaves behind a significant legacy in youth development, having played a key role in shaping the careers of several first-team and international players.

He joined Manchester United in 2016 from Sheffield United and became head of academy in 2019, has been instrumental in modernising the club's youth structure.

He is set to become technical director at Everton, though he will remain at the Old Trafford club until at least the end of the summer.

"Youth development is an important part of the lifeblood of this club, having the responsibility of supporting this generation of young people and staff to ensure that the system continues to thrive has been an immense privilege," said Cox.

"Working alongside some of the most talented and dedicated youth developers in the world has been a huge honour. There are countless individuals behind the scenes who play a vital role in supporting our young players to maximise their potential.

"I will be forever grateful for their support and know they will ensure that the academy continues to go from strength to strength as the club enters an exciting new era."

United director of football Jason Wilcox added: "Nick has made a huge contribution to Manchester United over the past nine years. I was already well aware of his qualities before I arrived at the club, and have really enjoyed working together.

"Identifying and developing the best youth talent remains one of this club's top priorities, and we are grateful for the work Nick has done to provide such a strong foundation for us to continue to build on."

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Chris Rumfitt from Manchester United Supporters' Trust has slammed "eye-watering" increases in ticket prices for next season.

United have announced matchday ticket prices could reach £97 as part of their new ticket pricing strategy, following the club's worse domestic campaign since 1974.

The most expensive matchday tickets at Old Trafford last season were £66.

There are four categories under the new system, with the lowest reserved exclusively for "some" cup games.

It means the lowest priced ticket for a Premier League game is £37, for the two category C matches against Sunderland and Wolves. That figure rises to £97 for the highest priced tickets in category A, which involves games against Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Newcastle and Tottenham.

Club officials argue the £97 applies to less than 1% of the available tickets.

"These increases are eye-watering," Rumfitt told BBC Radio Manchester. "They are worse than anyone's worse expectations.

"When they said they were going to introduce this model the suggestion was some tickets would stay the same price, some might even be a bit cheaper and a small number for the biggest games might be more expensive.

"What we've actually discovered is the price increases relate to 17 of the 19 Premier League games next season and for those games ticket prices are going up by typically 50%.

"The average cheapest ticket is going up by about 50% and that is absolutely outrageous, particularly after the season we just had.

"It's just extraordinary and I'm lost for words. We knew this model was coming but it's really the scale of it, the number of games that are being premium-priced and the extent of that pricing.

"There has been lots going on in terms of cuts at the club but they made the main ticketing announcement many months ago and we feel it's been pretty dishonest of them not to have made sure at that stage what was coming. We feel we have been misled and certainly we have not been consulted despite the club saying they would consult with fans.

"There has been nothing at all. "

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Even though Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim has endured a difficult start to life in England, chief executive Omar Berrada can see the similarities with Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola.

Berrada joined United after working as the chief football operations officer at City Football Group and recognises United's parallels with Guardiola's tricky debut season, where City finished fourth.

"It was difficult in Pep's first year," said Berrada in an in-depth interview with United We Stand fanzine, external. "He didn't win anything, and there was suspicion about whether he could implement his football vision in the Premier League. People said he was arrogant and wouldn't change his style of play. But he stuck to his principles."

Berrada feels the difficulties Amorim has encountered since his arrival will benefit the club next season, insisting there is genuine reason for optimism.

"It won't be easy," he said. "There'll be some difficult moments ahead. "Nothing is going to get solved with one summer window, but we are on the right path.

"We've put the worst part of this transformation phase behind us and now we're going to start building. I'm very confident we'll get back to the top."

Read the full article here

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United We Stand fanzine editor Andy Mitten spoke to BBC Radio Manchester about a recent interview he did with Manchester United chief executive Omar Berrada: "I felt it was important to put issues to him such as redundancies, ticket prices and protests - he fronted up and didn't shirk anything and I think it is really important that we communicate. It was an interesting interview and he is a highly intelligent interview.

"I went into the interview probably as the lowest I have felt as a Manchester United fan - after the game in Bilbao and a wretched season. I wanted to know that the main decision maker had a clear plan and he does. He said on the record that the 'pain is behind us' and the 'tough decisions have been made.'

"There was loads of side angles, such as him reading books on tactics on Hungarian football. It shows how deep he is going to learn about Manchester United."

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The Professional Footballers' Association has announced its shortlist for the PFA Players' Player of the Year award, with six standout Premier League performers in the running.

Liverpool duo Mohamed Salah and Alexis Mac Allister are joined by Newcastle United's Alexander Isak, Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes, Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice and Chelsea star Cole Palmer.

Salah continued his remarkable consistency for Liverpool, while Mac Allister impressed in his second season at Anfield.

Isak's clinical finishing helped Newcastle to a strong league campaign, and Fernandes remained a creative force despite United's mixed form.

Rice was pivotal in Arsenal's push in the league and Europe, and Palmer continued to show great form at Stamford Bridge with a series of match-winning displays.

The winner, voted for by fellow professionals, will be announced later this summer.

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Following recent rumours that Viktor Gyokeres has 'threatened to go on strike' to secure a move away from Sporting CP, we asked you if this behaviour would put you off signing him for Manchester United.

Here are some of your comments:

Stuart: United have had too many prima donnas recently who have disrupted the changing room. The last thing they need is another one, so I'd say 'thanks but no thanks' to his agent.

Arthur: Too much player power and holding clubs to ransom, but if there was a gentleman's agreement between Sporting and Gyokeres then the chairman should uphold his side of the bargain and not try to squeeze more money out of the interested clubs.

Kevin: So we force players like Rashford and Sancho out of the club because of their diva like attitudes yet we are willing to spend £50m+ to sign a player who is threatening to throw his toys out of the pram? I would stay well clear if I was running United.

James: I believe he was persuaded to stay last season on the 'gentleman's understanding' that he could leave for a lower fee than his release clause. If that is the case, and it is the club that are not honouring what they said, then why shouldn't he play hardball with them. What is he supposed to do? Just sit back and accept the club going back on their word? Yes, some players come across as unreasonable and arrogant, but this isn't the case here.

Karl: Attitude is of course important - but it's not a fixed thing and can be coached. Two players spring to mind who were both feisty and had short fuses when they first arrived at the club - many times I had my head in my hands as they kicked off over some minor misdemeanour- their names were Rooney and Ronaldo.

William: Leave him alone. He's supposed to be a professional with a professional contract. If his agent failed to include a release clause set at a price that would interest top clubs that's down to the agent and himself. Footballers are only too happy to accept their contracts at the time. A contract is a contract.

Manchester United are waiting to discover whether it will be possible to sign Bayern Munich and Portugal midfielder Joao Palhinha, 29, on loan after deciding not to spend big on Atalanta's Brazilian midfielder Ederson, 25. (Givemesport), external

Sporting and Sweden striker Viktor Gyokeres, 27, is edging closing to joining Arsenal instead of Manchester United. (Talksport), external

Want more transfer stories? Read Friday's full gossip column

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Simon Stone
Chief football news reporter

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This feels like a quiet period in the summer, with a lot of rumours about clubs being interested in players and buyers and sellers trying to establish what fees they could charge, or what they would have to pay.

For Manchester United, this might present a problem.

I was chatting to someone connected to the club earlier this week about Alejandro Garnacho, who has been told he can leave by head coach Ruben Amorim.

There is interest in the Argentina forward but no-one has stepped up to offer a fee United think is acceptable and the feeling is this might drag on.

Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, Antony and Tyrrell Malacia are all due to return after spending time away from Old Trafford on loan. All are on the kind of salaries that won't make it easy to move them on without United having some sort of financial involvement.

Players are due to return for training at the beginning of July, which should start to focus minds.

Then there is the first pre-season friendly with Leeds on 19 July followed by a three-match trip to the United States.

Ideally, United would have everything sorted by then. Don't be surprised if it drags on much longer.

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Manchester United have been linked with Sporting's Viktor Gyokeres consistently in recent months, and now reports claim that the striker has threatened to go on strike, if the Portuguese side don't lower their demands in order to force a move through.

If it's true, that the 27-year-old is in fact refusing to cooperate with his current club, is that a player who you still want brought into your squad? Or do you think his terms are fair?

Is attitude regarded as highly as talent and output?

Send us your thoughts here

This week on the Devils' Advocate podcast from BBC Radio Manchester, Gaz Drinkwater and Joe McGrath discuss the greatest goals they have ever seen at Old Trafford.

"In terms of a goal that means a lot to me, when they opened Old Trafford after Covid for the first time and there was 30,000 people there, I went with my nan," said Gaz.

"Cavani scored a goal from the halfway line and put it over the goalkeeper. That always has a special part in my heart just because I was there.

"Another one involving my gran really, was Scott McTominay against Manchester City [in the final game before Covid]. I accidentally headbutted my nan whilst celebrating."

Listen to the full episode on BBC Sounds