Former Manchester United striker Louis Saha has sparked controversy by suggesting that Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo should be put on the transfer market.
Despite their promising starts at Old Trafford, Saha feels neither player has proven to be world-class and believes it may be wise for United to cash in on them.
Both Garnacho and Mainoo were once seen as two of the brightest prospects in United’s academy, but their futures at the club are now uncertain.
With United potentially needing to comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules, selling academy products like Garnacho and Mainoo would generate pure profit for the club, which Saha views as an attractive option.
“From a PSR perspective, academy products are counted as pure profit, so cashing in on these players could help fund a special signing. They’ve been hyped up, but I haven’t seen enough from them to believe they’re irreplaceable at the club.” Saha said.
While both players still have a lot of potential, Saha emphasized that neither Garnacho nor Mainoo has shown the necessary quality to be considered “world-class” yet. He added, “If the right offer comes in, maybe you take it while you can.”
Earlier this month, it was reported that Manchester United is open to offers for several players, including Garnacho, Mainoo, and even Rasmus Højlund, players who were once seen as untouchable.
The club is reportedly willing to listen to offers for summer signings like Leny Yoro, Noussair Mazraoui, Matthijs de Ligt, and Manuel Ugarte, if the price is right.
There has been interest from several clubs for Garnacho and Mainoo, with Chelsea monitoring both players, Napoli keen on the Argentina international, and Bayern Munich reportedly eyeing Mainoo.
While Manchester United’s willingness to sell could make for a significant shake-up at the club, it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold as the transfer window progresses.