Manchester United staff were reportedly “relieved” that the club did not sell Alejandro Garnacho as his exit might have “caused uproar” among fans.
According to MEN, Napoli made an official bid for the 20-year-old winger, while Chelsea also inquired about a potential move. However, United opted to retain the promising star.
Some staff members feared that a potential sale would have triggered an angry reaction from fans, with one source admitting that there was no way to justify Garnacho’s departure “as a positive” move.
Selling a homegrown academy product would have counted as pure profit in the club’s financial records, making it beneficial under the Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
Despite this, United decided against cashing in on Garnacho, recognising his long-term potential and growing importance to Ruben Amorim’s pursuit of excellence.
Earlier in the season, Garnacho, along with Marcus Rashford, was dropped from the squad for the Manchester derby in December.
However, since then, he has regained his place in the starting XI, proving his value with a string of impressive performances.
Speaking about his importance, Amorim stated: “I want players like Kobbie [Mainoo] and Garnacho.
“The focus is that we have to improve our academy. And you have to bring more [through]. That is something that all the clubs in England have to take advantage of. The players that come from their academies. To play, to feel the shirt, but also to sell them. So our focus is to bring more [through].”
Despite United not actively seeking to sell Garnacho, reports suggest that the club would have considered offers in the region of £50 million ($62 million).
With eight goals and six assists this season, he has played a crucial role for the Red Devils. His impact off the bench was evident in the Europa League clash against FCSB when he set up Mainoo to score and he had previously assisted Amad Diallo against Liverpool in the Premier League.
After staying put at Old Trafford, Garnacho will look to prove his mettle again when Manchester United face Leicester City in an FA Cup fourth-round tie on Friday evening.
