## Agreement for Fofana
United is currently attempting to orchestrate a significant move in the transfer market by interfering with AC Milan’s plans to sign Youssouf Fofana. The talented French midfielder has already consented to a four-year contract with Milan, intending to depart from Monaco. His current deal with Monaco is nearing its end, with less than a year remaining, making him a hot commodity in the transfer market.
Fofana’s contract is set to expire in June next year, and Monaco is eager to sell him this summer rather than risk losing him for nothing in 2025. This urgency from Monaco has prompted them to enter negotiations with interested clubs, with AC Milan initially taking the lead.
Although Milan has successfully negotiated personal terms with Fofana, they have yet to reach an agreement with Monaco regarding the transfer fee. Milan’s initial offer ranges between €20 million to €25 million (£16.8 million to £21.1 million), which falls short of Monaco’s valuation of €35 million (£29.5 million), as reported by RMC Sport. This discrepancy has left the door open for other clubs to make their moves.
United, recognizing the opportunity, is now considering a bid for Fofana. United’s chief, Dan Ashworth, is reportedly strategizing to outmaneuver Milan by presenting a more attractive offer to Monaco. Given United’s financial capabilities, they are in a strong position to surpass Milan’s bid, appealing to Monaco’s desire to sell to the highest bidder.
The potential sales of key players like Casemiro and possibly Christian Eriksen are part of United’s broader strategy to revamp their midfield. Additionally, with Sofyan Amrabat’s departure, United is looking to bolster their midfield options significantly. The club’s plan is to bring in at least one, but more likely two, new midfielders during this transfer window.
If these plans materialize, United’s manager, Erik ten Hag, will have a versatile and strengthened midfield to choose from for the upcoming season. The combination of young talent like Kobbie Mainoo and the potential additions of Fofana and Manuel Ugarte would provide ten Hag with a robust set of options to navigate the challenges of the new campaign.