‘Man United clear to sign Pervis Estupinan after Brighton news confirmed’
Man United may look to swoop for Brighton’s Pervis Estupinan in a bid to bolster Ruben Amorim’s squad after the Seagulls’ confirmed news.
The Red Devils are in the market for reinforcements in nearly every single position, but the wing-back spots require attention more than most.
At right wing-back, Diogo Dalot has been unconvincing when used there, but Noussair Mazraoui at least offers a clear first-choice option.
However, on the opposite side, the picture is less clear. Patrick Dorgu was signed in January from Lecce and whilst the Dane has bundles of talent, the 20-year-old currently lacks the consistency required to be a clear starter.
Behind him, there is even less first-team experience as youngster Harry Amass and new signing Diego Leon are the alternatives.
The Englishman has played just seven times for the Red Devils, and whilst the new Paraguayan has made 35 appearances, he will need time to adapt to English football.
With that in mind, United may look to make a move for Brighton’s Estupinan, and their chances of securing a move will be bolstered by the Seagull’s latest transfer.
Brighton sign Maxim De Cuyper from Club Brugge
Brighton have signed Maxim De Cuyper from Club Brugge in a deal worth €20million (£17.26m) plus add-ons [The Athletic].
The Belgian was highly sought after and will be familiar to Aston Villa fans in particular, after scoring against them in the Champions League last season.
De Cuyper’s arrival at the Amex would seem to pave the way for Estupinan to move to United, and according to the club’s former chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider the Ecuadorian was keen to make the move to Old Trafford this summer.
Man United finances stronger than many think
One sticking point for a deal may be the 20-time Premier League champions’ finances. Man United were believed to have a limited transfer budget this summer, thanks to transfer debts that had piled up over the course of years of unfettered spending.
This situation seemed to be exacerbated by the club’s failure to qualify for the Champions League after losing to Tottenham in the Europa League final.
However, football finance expert Dan Plumley revealed to Football Insider that Man United’s finances were not “as bad” as had been reported.
And that has been evidenced with the signing of Matheus Cunha from Wolves for £62.5m [Sky Sports], and the bids for Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo.
Brighton may also be further inclined to cash in on Estupinan for a more agreeable fee this summer, with the Ecuadorian having just two years remaining on his current deal.
The 27-year-old is at the peak of his powers, and also his value, and the signing of De Cuyper may have been done with the left-back’s exit in mind.