In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves across the Premier League, Alejandro Garnacho has reportedly agreed to join Arsenal in principle on a lucrative five-year contract. The deal, said to be worth โฌ120,000 per week, signals a significant career shift for the Argentine winger and a massive statement of intent from the Gunners.
Sources close to the negotiation revealed that Garnachoโs representatives initiated contact with Arsenal following a decisive conversation between the player and new Manchester United head coach, Ruben Amorim. Amorim, reportedly unimpressed with Garnachoโs attitude and consistency, has advised him to seek opportunities elsewhere, triggering a flurry of interest from top European clubs.
Garnacho, once touted as a future cornerstone at Old Trafford, resisted transfer attempts in January, choosing to fight for his place. However, with United failing to qualify for European competitions and preparing for a significant squad overhaul, his departure now appears inevitable.
While still under contract until 2028, Garnachoโs decision to entertain talks with rival Premier League clubsโespecially Arsenalโmarks a dramatic twist in the saga. United are expected to demand upwards of ยฃ60 million for the 20-year-old, despite his recent form being less than stellar.
Arsenal, in the market for a natural left-winger to add pace and flair to Mikel Artetaโs attacking arsenal, are reportedly weighing Garnacho among several options. Sources confirm the Gunners have been approached by Garnachoโs camp, who believe the player fits Arsenalโs tactical system and long-term vision.
However, Arsenalโs interest remains lukewarm at this stage. The North London club is believed to be prioritizing targets such as Rafael Leรฃo of AC Milan, Rodrygo of Real Madrid, and Nico Williams of Athletic Club. Other names in contention include Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, Bryan Mbeumo, Mohammed Kudus, and Anthony Gordon.
Despite Arsenalโs caution, Garnachoโs potential arrival could add serious depth to their front line. A technically gifted dribbler with explosive speed, he would offer Arteta the kind of unpredictability thatโs often needed in tight fixtures.
Meanwhile, other European heavyweights are circling. Napoli, who showed interest in January, have reignited their pursuit. With Khvicha Kvaratskhelia linked with a move away, Garnacho is seen as a natural replacement. The Italian club is reportedly willing to offer close to ยฃ50 millionโa figure significantly below Unitedโs asking price.
Atletico Madrid, Garnachoโs former youth club, have also expressed interest. A return to Spain could appeal to the winger, especially with Diego Simeoneโs side in need of dynamic wide players to compete on multiple fronts.
Unitedโs internal restructuring further hints at a mass exodus. Along with Garnacho, academy gem Kobbie Mainoo is attracting serious offers. Veterans like Christian Eriksen, Jonny Evans, and Victor Lindelรถf are expected to be released, while Antony, Jadon Sancho, and Marcus Rashford are all up for potential sale.
Captain Bruno Fernandes remains one of the few untouchables at the club, but even he is being lured by a big-money move abroad. The mood at Old Trafford is one of uncertainty, and Garnachoโs exit would symbolize a changing of the guard.
The timeline of Garnachoโs decline at United is telling. His last full match came under Erik ten Hag on October 27, 2024, against West Ham. Despite a promising appearance under Ruud van Nistelrooy against Leicester and a goal versus Bodo/Glimt in November, he struggled to maintain consistency.
December was especially telling. Garnacho was left out of the Manchester derby squad and made only a brief appearance in a Carabao Cup clash versus Spurs. Under Amorim, he was occasionally deployed as an attacking midfielder but failed to cement a spot.
Analysts believe a fresh environment might reinvigorate the young talent. Arsenal, known for developing youth under Arteta, could provide the ideal platform. However, financial considerations and the playerโs temperament remain sticking points.
In the end, the saga may come down to which club is willing to match Unitedโs valuation and offer Garnacho a central role. Whether thatโs Arsenal or a suitor from Serie A or La Liga remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: Garnachoโs days at Old Trafford are numbered.
As the summer window officially opens, expect this story to dominate headlines. Arsenal fans will be watching closely, wondering if their club will take the gamble on one of Manchester Unitedโs most talked-about young stars.
