Man Utd could still sell Alejandro Garnacho. (Image: Getty)
Alejandro Garnacho is preparing to leave Manchester United before the January transfer deadline amid interest from and Napoli, according to reports. But, on Thursday night, the 20-year-old showcased exactly why would be making a mistake by sanctioning his exit so late in the winter window.
Napoli have identified Garnacho as an ideal replacement for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who joined Paris Saint-Germain in a £59million deal earlier in the month.
However, The Independent claim that the Serie A giants haven’t come close to meeting United’s £70m asking price, with waiting in the wings.
The Blues haven’t yet submitted an official offer for Garnacho, but one is expected to arrive at Old Trafford before the clock strikes 11pm on Monday.
Garnacho is one of United’s most exciting academy graduates in recent history, scoring 23 goals and providing 15 assists in 121 appearances.
So, naturally, the prospect of the Argentine leaving the club in general would be a bitter pill for any supporter to swallow.
A late switch to would sting even more, especially with time running out to sufficiently replace him in Amorim’s already-limited attack.
And Garnacho’s performance in United’s Europa League victory against FCSB strengthened the widespread desire for his stay.
Alejandro Garnacho may have played his last Man Utd game. (Image: Getty)
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Amorim named the No. 17 on the bench, revealing he had struggled with an illness through the week, but called on him alongside Amad at half-time.
Garnacho’s introduction changed the game in United’s favour, fuelling a 2-0 win courtesy of goals from Diogo Dalot and Kobbie Mainoo, the latter of which he created.
In 45 minutes, Garnacho completed the most dribbles in the match (five), drew the most fouls (four) and hit the post – on top of his assist.
He created two chances in total and won eight of his 12 contested ground duels, injecting life into the visitors at Bucharest’s National Stadium.
The most prominent argument for United to cash in on Garnacho has been his incompatibility with Amorim’s 3-4-3 system, preferring to play as a wide winger.
But the Portuguese head coach has insisted that he’s showing signs of improvement and is learning how he needs his inside forwards to play.
And while remaining coy on his future beyond the deadline, Amorim has made it clear that he is happy with Garnacho and would like to retain his services.
The ball is on ‘s side of the court to test United’s resolve over the weekend. Otherwise, the opportunity could be permanently off the table if Garnacho continues on his current trajectory.