Chelsea step up talks for Garnacho as player issues United exit demand

Alejandro Garnacho has informed Manchester United he wants to leave amid growing interest from Chelsea for the £50million-rated winger.

The Argentine, who was placed in Ruben Amorim’s five-man ‘bomb squad’ at the start of the summer alongside fellow exiles Jadon Sancho, Antony, Marcus Rashford and Tyrell Malacia, is seeking an escape from Old Trafford ahead of what promises to be a season permanently on the sidelines.

Garnacho was told by Amorim to find a new club in May, after the winger was unhappy to start on the bench in the Europa League final.

Reports indicate the 21-year-old has now set his mind on a move to Chelsea, with the Blues holding a strong interest in the exile.

The Red Devils, who initially wanted £70m for Garnacho, have reduced their asking price to £50m in the hope of securing his exit.

According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, Garnacho has told United to arrange his departure to Chelsea or he will sit on the bench for the next six to 12 months.

Romano also stated on X (formerly Twitter) that Chelsea have stepped up talks with Manchester United over a potential move for Garnacho, having already agreed personal terms with the player.

It is understood the Blues’ hierarchy have no concerns over his character after doing their homework, and that negotiations over Garnacho’s exit fee are underway.

In total, Garnacho has played 144 games for Manchester United and scored 26 goals, while providing 22 assists.

He won the FA Cup with United in the 2023-24 campaign and the EFL Cup in the previous season.

Elsewhere, Chelsea have also opened discussions with RB Leipzig over a possible swap deal for Xavi Simons, which could see Christopher Nkunku return to the Bundesliga club where he previously thrived.