Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has issued a firm warning to rival clubs hoping to land the club’s out-of-favour stars at discounted prices this summer, insisting that United will not be pressured into cut-price deals.
At the start of pre-season, Amorim sidelined a group of high-profile players — Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, Jadon Sancho, and Tyrrell Malacia — from first-team plans.
While Rashford has since completed a high-profile transfer to Barcelona, the remaining four have been training separately at Carrington and were left out of the club’s squad for the Premier League Summer Series in the U.S.
Interest in the exiled players remains, with Real Betis pursuing a permanent move for Antony following his successful loan spell, and Juventus keeping tabs on Sancho, albeit dependent on player departures.
Garnacho has also attracted attention from several European clubs.
However, no moves appear imminent, with many suitors seemingly hoping to strike late deals as the transfer window nears its 1 September deadline.
Amorim, however, warned that Manchester United won’t budge on valuations.
“Jason [Wilcox], Omar [Berrada], and the club have clear figures for each player,” said Amorim.
“If those valuations are not met, the players will stay at Manchester United — no question.
Some players want a fresh challenge, and we respect that, but we’re also prepared to reintegrate them into the squad if necessary.”
He added, “Other clubs may wait until the final days of the window, but they could be in for a surprise. I’m ready to welcome the players back if deals aren’t done.”
Meanwhile, United have already made key moves in the market, securing forwards Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, along with young midfielder Diego Leon. However, Amorim is still targeting a holding midfielder and a new striker to strengthen weak points in his squad.
Despite that, the Portuguese manager said he would be content to face Arsenal on the opening weekend with the players currently at his disposal.
“At this point, the club has to be smart with its spending,” Amorim noted. “If we can’t bring in more signings, I’m happy with this group — because everyone here wants to be here. And for me, that matters more than anything.”
United spent nearly £130 million on Cunha and Mbeumo in a bid to revive their fortunes following a disappointing 15th-place finish last season. Both players come in with high expectations — and pressure.
Cunha, who turned down interest from Arsenal and Tottenham to fulfil a childhood dream of playing at Old Trafford, embraces the challenge.
“The pressure here isn’t pressure — it’s a privilege,” said the 26-year-old Brazilian. “When Ruben told me he wanted me to be part of bringing this club back to greatness, I knew it was the right decision. I’m ready for it.”
With tough early fixtures against Arsenal, Manchester City, and Chelsea, Amorim and his revamped squad will be tested from the outset.
