Arsenal have dramatically reversed their stance on signing Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho after conducting what club sources have described as “thorough due diligence” on the player’s availability, temperament, and potential fit within Mikel Arteta’s system.
Initially, the Gunners were heavily linked with a move for the explosive 21-year-old Argentine, whose pace, flair, and ability to turn games had caught the attention of several top European clubs. However, following extensive internal discussions and scouting reports, the north London side decided against pursuing the transfer — a decision that has surprised many in the footballing world.
Garnacho’s situation at Old Trafford has been under the spotlight all summer. Under new manager Ruben Amorim, his future looks uncertain, especially after reports emerged that he was told he could leave at the end of last season. This came in the wake of the player expressing dissatisfaction at being left out of the starting XI for the Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur — a game United ultimately lost.
Tensions appeared to escalate further when respected journalist Fabrizio Romano revealed on July 4 that Garnacho, along with four other Manchester United players, had formally informed the club of his desire to leave. With the transfer window set to close on September 1, the clock is ticking for both the player and his current employers to resolve his future.
For Arsenal, Garnacho would have represented a high-profile attacking reinforcement. The winger has scored 26 goals and registered 22 assists in 144 appearances for United — numbers that underline his productivity despite his relatively young age. Yet, according to The Manchester Evening News, Arsenal’s in-depth research led them to believe that the deal was not the right fit, and the club promptly withdrew from the race.
Instead, Mikel Arteta has focused his resources elsewhere. The Gunners have already secured the signing of Noni Madueke from Chelsea to strengthen their wide options and are actively exploring a move for Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze, whose creativity and versatility have made him one of the Premier League’s most sought-after talents. Sporting director Andrea Berta is understood to be leading those negotiations.
Arsenal’s decision opens the door for other clubs to make their move. Tottenham Hotspur, their fiercest rivals, were also linked with Garnacho but are currently prioritising a deal for Manchester City winger Savinho. Atletico Madrid — the player’s former club — explored the possibility of bringing him back to La Liga but opted instead to sign Spain international Alex Baena from Villarreal.
Chelsea, however, have emerged as the most serious contenders for Garnacho’s signature. TEAMtalk’s transfer insider Rudy Galetti claims the Blues have already agreed personal terms with the winger, who has made it clear that Stamford Bridge is his preferred destination. Chelsea are reportedly confident they can convince Manchester United to drop their £50 million asking price to around £35 million, despite United’s reluctance to let the player go cheaply.
Former Manchester United defender John O’Kane has urged his old club to remain firm on their valuation, pointing out that James McAtee recently moved to Nottingham Forest for £35 million despite having far less Premier League experience than Garnacho. “Manchester United needs to hold firm on this one — £50 million plus add-ons at a minimum,” O’Kane posted on X.
Last season was one of Garnacho’s busiest yet, with 58 appearances in all competitions. He scored 11 goals and provided 10 assists, further cementing his reputation as a high-energy attacker capable of impacting games at the highest level. Despite the apparent breakdown in his relationship with Amorim, there is no shortage of suitors willing to bet on his talent.
For Arsenal, the decision to walk away reflects a more measured approach to recruitment. Arteta and his team appear committed to finding players who not only fit the tactical blueprint but also align with the club’s long-term culture and dressing room harmony. Whether Garnacho thrives elsewhere or Arsenal come to regret this U-turn will be one of the intriguing subplots of the final weeks of the transfer window.
