Garnacho linked to Chelsea in transfer twist

Manchester United face a growing transfer situation around Alejandro Garnacho as Chelsea pursue him amid a broader shift in Chelsea’s squad planning.

Garnacho Linked to Chelsea as Maresca Signals Frontline Shift

Alejandro Garnacho remains at the center of transfer chatter as Chelsea pursue a forward option this summer. Enzo Maresca is eager to bolster Chelsea’s attack, while Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has signaled Garnacho could leave this summer as the club reshapes its squad ahead of the new season. Garnacho started the last knockout ties but was benched in Bilbao, adding to questions about his role at Old Trafford.

Garnacho was left out of United’s pre season tour in the United States and has trained separately since the team returned to Carrington. Chelsea’s interest in Garnacho appears linked to strengthening options up front, with the teenager still under contract for three years at Old Trafford. However, Chelsea’s recruitment planning seems to be paused while they reassess priorities and target a defensive reinforcement following Levi Colwill’s ACL injury, which could keep him out for the season. Maresca stressed the need to protect the defense, saying Chelsea will miss Colwill and that strengthening in defense is a priority.

The episode highlights how managers balance long term development with short term needs. Maresca’s public emphasis on a defensive priority suggests Chelsea are willing to adjust transfer plans if the right move fits a broader strategy. For United, Garnacho’s situation underscores a recurring tension between nurturing emerging talents and securing ready options when a shift in leadership style or squad balance is desired. The row over Garnacho also reflects how a single player can become a focal point for negotiating power within a busy transfer window.

Highlights

The window is still young and the picture can change quickly as clubs recalibrate their plans.