Now that the dust has settled on a tumultuous day in Manchester, reflection can offer a hint of understanding to an otherwise frustrating scenario.
Hourly updates regarding Mateus Fernandes were tedious. Nonetheless, we at the Theatre of Red were routinely told of United’s confidence in acquiring the Portuguese talent.
Inevitably, an unwillingness to match Spurs’ £85 million up-front offer led to a decision to walk away from negotiations, as newly-relegated West Ham admirably maximised their profits.
For many, the sight of Elliot Anderson choosing City is one thing. Still, the idea of ‘losing out’ to Tottenham in a bidding war for Fernandes is a different dynamic entirely.
Before we continue, allow me to clarify one detail: United did not lose anything; they opted to maintain internally agreed parameters, both financial and culture-oriented.
From a cost perspective, Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox refused to go beyond what they considered fair and reasonable for a 21-year-old who has yet to reach his potential.
When considering culture, Michael Carrick and Steve Holland have worked tirelessly to build a harmonious dressing room with complete buy-in from every first-team player.
If there is a shred of doubt about the commitment of even one, the body of work is at risk.
Think back to Bryan Mbeumo and his desire to move north. We have been advised that officials expected the same level of buy-in from Fernandes towards the final days of discussions, but were not satisfied with the final product.
I’m aware that these decisions will mean little to some, and a lack of transfer activity is where the proof lies at Old Trafford.
Regardless, this group would not have exited prolonged negotiations without having several alternative options scouted and readied in reserve. Contrary to a rising narrative, further midfield attention remains a priority.
Manchester United held the cards and decided to walk away from Mateus Fernandes
“I think that the template for what we did last summer will be replicated in many ways,” Berrada told Andy Mitten on Inside Carrington.
“You always go into a window, you don’t know how you are going to come out of it, but you have to be really prepared.
“You have to have a clear plan. You have to know exactly what positions you are looking to strengthen. And you also have to be prepared for any eventuality.”
Angered supporters may scoff at these words and label the former Barcelona man as nothing more than a continuation of the Glazer regime, but there is a sense of relative truth here.
Unpretentiously, when all is said and done, social media will paint this deal as a public triumph for North London.
But while the frustration of losing out on the former Sporting talent is understandable, the transfer fee and the salary (reportedly £200k+ per week) went above and beyond what the Reds were willing to pay.
You may choose to label this a lack of ambition, but had United given in to demands, headlines would have bemoaned the repetition of overpaying for unproven talent, while praying for the first misplaced pass.
After speaking with several sources today, we’re advised that Manchester officials have complete faith in their recruitment strategy, and Carrick shares their confidence.
Remember, only hours before David Ornstein revealed the news about Fernandes, he stated that United’s recruitment plans were unaffected by Manuel Ugarte’s injury and that several midfield additions were being considered.
Among the many names suggested are Aurelien Tchouameni, Carlos Baleba, Alex Scott, and Ayyoub Bouaddi.
While Tchouameni is viewed as the dream acquisition, the current feeling is that he will remain in Spain, and Bouaddi is attracting serious interest from City, Munich and Madrid.
With Ederson already secured, the club will give consideration towards the likes of Baleba and Scott, with both viewed as complementary additions due to age, ability and Premier League standing.
The pair retain admirers throughout Carrington and have been shortlisted as potential signings alongside others for several months. Hence, the reasoning in walking away from an inflated deal for Fernandes, however agonising.
Although some prefer to ignore the many reports we have shared regarding the football club and instead send vitriol, we will continue to provide you with the most authentic information we can throughout the summer.
Let us know your feelings in the comments or across our social channels. Photo by operations@newsimages.co.uk via depositphotos.com.
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4 responses to “Manchester United have complete faith in their recruitment strategy”
Cheers Shaun, thats a good reflection of the last few weeks.
Has there been a change in messaging from club sources over the same period though? Recently, they signalled a 3rd CM was dependent on Ugarte moving on, but now its not.
Also, it was widely reported last month that the club felt that Fernandes was open to a move to United, but it transpires he never gave such an impression.
This pivot in messaging from club sources seems to be going unchallenged. What do you think?
Paper never refuses ink, Marko. Our sources have never pivoted, and the impression was that Fernandes wanted to join the club. Ultimately, it’s better that he didn’t if money was his main priority.
The prices of Anderson and Fernandes have shuttered valuations for the available PL midfielders. I reckon Bournemouth and Brighton are going to price us out of their players. I think the club should recruit out of the PL a player who fits the profile. They’re quite many by the way.
It’s a valid observation, Peter. There is plenty of talent across the continent and beyond.