La Liga giants test United’s resolve with ludicrous £33m offer for ‘relentless’ fan-favourite

Of all the members of the Manchester United squad that have come under fire for their performances in recent seasons, Alejandro Garnacho has very rarely been one.

That’s how it should be, too. The 20-year-old has gone from strength to strength since breaking into the first team in 2021, after which he cemented his place during Erik ten Hag’s maiden campaign in 2022/2023.

Garnacho made 11 starts that season with the Dutchman at the helm and, after quickly making a name for himself with his ‘relentless’ attacking exploits, had become a mainstay in 23/24, seeing his starts increased to a whopping 41 in all competitions.

He returned 10 goals and five assists throughout the term. Now, if his prolific form continues, he’s on course to exceed his tally with months to spare, having already notched seven goals and four assists in his 18 appearances thus far.

Atletico Madrid try their luck with Garnacho bid

Alas, it’s no surprise that clubs across Europe are now being alerted to the Argentine’s situation. One report from Fichajes today claims that Atletico Madrid are hoping they can strike up a surprise reunion with Garnacho, whom they sold for only £420,000 back in 2020.

The Madrid-born youngster penned a five-year contract at Old Trafford in April 2023, meaning United are in full control of his future for the time being. In line with that, he’s shown no signs of wanting to bid farewell to the English top flight anytime soon.

Nonetheless, Atleti have reportedly made a proposal worth €40 million (£33m) and 21-year-old Pablo Barrios for their former academy project,

Barrios, like Garnacho, has become an integral part of his side’s senior team despite his young age. He has made eight La Liga appearances since the term began, with seven coming from the off, but he has missed five matches already through a muscle injury.