Manchester United in talks with Barcelona over loan deal for Dembele

September 30, 2020

United are keen to sign a winger during this transfer window and, while their first choice is Jadon Sancho, Dembele represents a strong alternative.

The 23-year-old was a club-record signing for Barcelona when he arrived from Borussia Dortmund for €105m (£95.75m) in August 2017.

He has won two La Liga titles and the Copa del Rey during his three seasons in Spain, but has been restricted to 75 appearances in all competitions by a series of injuries.

Former Manchester United assistant manager Steve McClaren has told Sky Sports News that he thinks Dembele would only be a short-term option for his former club, until they are able to sign Sancho.

McClaren encouraged United to meet Dortmund’s asking price for Sancho, and also wants them to upgrade their defence, saying: “They need a centre-forward, they need a centre-back and they need a left-back. Those are the priorities.

“But players like Sancho don’t come around very often. He’s a unique type of player to go into Manchester United. They’ve been searching all across the world. They’re only £20m short – come on, get the deal done! It’s for the future.

“United have done well so far with their scouting and who they have brought in. If they’re still going for Sancho, then I think Dembele is for the short-term, a stopgap.

“But they need a centre-forward, and they need a centre-back. If they want to play with intensity and a high line, they need speed at the back.”