INEOS scouts were in attendance at a Europa League match on Thursday, as Manchester United set their sights on a 19-year-old Fenerbahçe defender who had a challenging performance and was substituted at halftime.
Man Utd’s Summer Transfer Strategy Focused on Attacking Reinforcements
Manchester United are planning a major overhaul of their attack in the upcoming transfer window, with the forward line identified as a critical area for improvement. Over the past two seasons, the team’s lack of goals has become a significant issue, prompting the need for new attacking talent.
Rasmus Højlund has been leading the line for United this season, but the Danish striker has struggled to find consistent form, with his goal drought continuing. As a result, United are actively seeking a new striker. According to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, the club has expressed interest in RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško. The Slovenian forward has a £66 million release clause, but United face competition from Chelsea, Arsenal, and Liverpool. To facilitate the move, United may need to offload players or explore alternative targets.
In addition to strengthening the attack, United are also looking to bolster their wide options. Reports suggest the club is preparing a £25 million bid for Sporting CP’s 17-year-old winger Geovany Quenda. United are said to have already agreed on personal terms with the youngster, and the move could see Quenda reunited with former Sporting manager Rúben Amorim.
Man Utd Scouting Fenerbahçe Defender Yusuf Akçiçek
Defensive reinforcements are also on the agenda, with United reportedly sending scouts to watch Fenerbahçe’s 19-year-old defender Yusuf Akçiçek during Thursday’s Europa League clash. According to Turkish journalist Yağız Sabuncuoğlu, United had representatives in Istanbul to monitor Akçiçek’s performance.
However, the young defender had a difficult outing as Fenerbahçe fell 3-1 to Rangers. Akçiçek was substituted at halftime after failing to register a tackle, interception, block, or clearance while playing on the left of a back three. Despite this, he showcased strong ball-playing abilities, completing 40 out of 42 pass attempts.
Akçiçek, a Turkey U-19 international, has become a key figure for Fenerbahçe this season under José Mourinho, making 14 appearances across all competitions, including six in the Europa League. With his contract running until 2028, United could test Fenerbahçe’s resolve with a formal offer. The potential departures of Victor Lindelöf and Jonny Evans at the end of the season make defensive reinforcements a priority.
Youth-Focused Recruitment Continues
United’s pursuit of Akçiçek aligns with their strategy of investing in young talent. Alongside Lille’s Leny Yoro, his arrival could provide long-term defensive stability for the club. As United prepare for a busy summer transfer window, the focus remains on building a squad capable of competing at the highest level.
