United fans deface Garnacho poster amid Chelsea talks

Dejected Alejandro Garnacho sits on the pitch after Manchester United's Europa League final defeat (Illustrative image) (Photo by Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images) Getty Images

Manchester United supporters made their feelings clear about Alejandro Garnacho's transfer demands by defacing his poster outside Old Trafford. The vandalism saw the 21-year-old winger's face crossed out, symbolising fan anger over his desire to leave the club.

Garnacho has been placed in manager Ruben Amorim's so-called "bomb squad" alongside Jadon Sancho, Antony, Marcus Rashford and Tyrell Malacia. The Argentine was told to find a new club in May after expressing unhappiness about starting on the bench in the Europa League final.

Chelsea talks intensify

Chelsea have emerged as Garnacho's preferred destination and have already agreed personal terms with the player. The Blues have stepped up talks with United over a potential transfer, with their hierarchy satisfied about the winger's character after conducting due diligence.

United are demanding £50 million for Garnacho's transfer. However, according to Metro reports, Chelsea value the winger at only £30 million, creating a significant £20 million valuation gap between the clubs.

Player's ultimatum

According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, Garnacho has delivered an ultimatum to United's hierarchy. The player has threatened to sit on the bench for six to 12 months if the club fails to arrange his move to Chelsea.

Metro reports suggest Amorim was shocked by Garnacho's comments following the Europa League final defeat. His exclusion from the Arsenal game signals the manager's determination to move on unwanted players who don't fit his plans.

Transfer background

During his time at United, Garnacho has made 144 appearances, scoring 26 goals and providing 22 assists. He helped the club win the FA Cup in 2023-24 and the EFL Cup the previous season.

Chelsea are also pursuing other targets, with reports suggesting they have entered talks with RB Leipzig over a potential swap deal involving Christopher Nkunku and Xavi Simons.

Sources used: "Daily Mail", "Metro" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.