Chelsea have reached an agreement with Manchester United to sign Alejandro Garnacho in a deal worth close to £40 million.
The 21-year-old winger is set to move to Stamford Bridge on a seven-year contract, with final documents being exchanged before the transfer deadline.
Journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed the news this evening, claiming that Garnacho only wanted to join Chelsea once it became clear he had no long-term future at Old Trafford.
United had initially valued Garnacho at around £50 million, but the two clubs have now settled on a package around £40m.
Chelsea view the Argentina international as Premier League-proven talent with considerable upside, while also recognising that his development has stalled in Manchester.
Garnacho emerged as one of United’s most promising young players in the 2023/24 campaign, but his relationship with manager Ruben Amorim has quickly deteriorated.
The move comes at a crucial time for the winger, who hopes to secure a place in Argentina’s squad for next summer’s World Cup.
He has not featured for the national team since last year and was not included in the latest squad for qualifiers against Venezuela and Ecuador.
Competition for places under Lionel Scaloni is fierce, and Garnacho knows that regular football at Chelsea could revive his international prospects.
At United, his departure forms part of a broader reshaping of Amorim’s squad in the final days of the window.
Kobbie Mainoo remains off the market despite limited opportunities, while Rasmus Hojlund is expected to join Napoli.
Discussions are ongoing regarding whether the deal will be a loan or a permanent move.
United are also negotiating the permanent transfer of Antony to Real Betis after his successful loan in Spain.
