Manchester United's Transfer Struggles: Money Matters and Missed Chances

Manchester United's summer transfer plans are hitting roadblocks. The club is eager to strengthen their squad, but money is tight. They missed out on the Champions League last season, and big signings like Matheus Cunha and the pursuit of Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo have left little room for more spending without selling some players first. United has made a third offer for Mbeumo, worth £60 million plus £5 million in add-ons. But they're also looking at other positions. They want another left-back to compete with Patrick Dorgu and the often-injured Luke Shaw. Tyrell Malacia might be sold to make room. They've shown interest in Brighton's Pervis Estupinan and have even talked to his agents. But AC Milan is now in the mix, wanting Estupinan to replace Theo Hernandez, who just left for Al Hilal. Estupinan, 27, has been a key player for Brighton since 2022. He's under contract until 2027, and Brighton might sell him for around £35 million. That's a lot of money, and United might have to wait to sell players like Marcus Rashford, Antony, Jadon Sancho, or Malacia before they can afford him. If Milan gets him first, it's another miss for United. United also tried to get involved in the race for Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike. But Liverpool is now close to signing him for over €80 million. Newcastle was also interested, but Liverpool seems to be winning this one. United's transfer struggles show how hard it is to balance big signings with financial limits. They need to sell to buy, and that's not always easy. Other clubs are stepping in and taking the players they want. It's a tough market, and United is feeling the pressure.