Just a year after scoring the winning goal in the FA Cup final, it appears the curtain may be closing on Alejandro Garnacho's time at Manchester United.
The electrifying Argentine winger, once heralded as a future star under Erik ten Hag, has reportedly fallen out with new head coach Rúben Amorim. The 20-year-old, who recently won the FIFA Puskás Award, was dropped for United’s Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur, leading to public frustration and speculation about his future.
“Up until the final I played every round helping the team, and today I played 20 minutes, I don't know. The final will influence [my decision] but the whole season, the situation of the club.” – Alejandro Garnacho after the final
Manchester United are reportedly seeking €50 million+ for the winger, and several clubs across Europe are circling. Below, we explore five top contenders for Garnacho's signature.
Garnacho’s 2024/25 Stats at a Glance:
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Premier League Appearances: 36
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Goals: 6
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Assists: 2
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Position: Attacking Midfielder / Winger
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Age: 20
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Estimated Market Value: €50M+
1. Aston Villa – The Premier League Wildcard
According to The Independent, Aston Villa are firmly in the race to land Garnacho.
The Unai Emery-led team is eager to build on their momentum after clinching Champions League qualification. While Morgan Rogers has attracted interest from Arsenal, Villa are eyeing Garnacho as a dynamic replacement on the left flank.
Why it could work:
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Garnacho stays in the Premier League
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Immediate starting opportunity
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High-profile European football
Challenges:
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Villa must raise funds due to Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR)
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Squad reshuffle needed to accommodate him
2. Chelsea – A Long-Term Admirer
Chelsea have had their eyes on Garnacho since January, and their interest has not waned.
The Blues’ transfer policy under owner Todd Boehly focuses on acquiring young, high-ceiling talents, and Garnacho perfectly fits that mold. With Champions League football back at Stamford Bridge, and the team under a potentially new coach this summer, Chelsea could give Garnacho the platform to shine.
Why it could work:
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Champions League football
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Existing interest and fit within youth-driven strategy
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Capable of replacing underperforming wide options
Challenges:
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Garnacho would face fierce competition
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Stability under new management still a question
3. Napoli – Persistent & Determined
Napoli were the most aggressive suitor in January, reportedly making two bids for Garnacho, the highest exceeding €50m with add-ons. Though United rejected the offers, Napoli are expected to return this summer.
Having signed Scott McTominay at a bargain, they may believe Garnacho could replicate his success in Italy.
Why it could work:
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Garnacho gets regular football in a slower-paced league
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Massive fan support and tactical structure
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Champions League exposure
Challenges:
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Cultural and language shift
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Garnacho may prefer to stay in England
4. Atlético Madrid – A Homecoming Story
Garnacho was part of the Atlético Madrid youth academy before joining Manchester United in 2020 for €465,000. A return to Madrid could be on the cards, especially as Diego Simeone is a known admirer.
Atlético are reportedly keen and financially capable of meeting both United’s valuation and Garnacho’s wages.
Why it could work:
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Emotional return to a former club
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Garnacho would thrive under Simeone's trust
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Less pressure than Real Madrid or Barcelona
Challenges:
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Tactical discipline demanded by Simeone
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Garnacho’s individualistic flair might clash with defensive system
5. Bayer Leverkusen – The Erik ten Hag Connection
While a transfer to Bayer Leverkusen seems far-fetched due to finances, it can't be ruled out entirely.
The presence of Erik ten Hag, who is reportedly set to take over at the Bundesliga champions, adds a compelling narrative. The Dutch manager has an excellent relationship with Garnacho and might convince the player to join him in Germany, especially if Florian Wirtz completes a blockbuster move to Liverpool, freeing up funds.
Why it could work:
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Reunion with a trusted coach
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Leverkusen playing elite-level football
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Potential to be a star in the Bundesliga
Challenges:
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Wage demands
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United’s high transfer fee
Final Thoughts: What’s Next for Garnacho?
Garnacho’s frustration is clear. After feeling sidelined during the most crucial match of the season, his comments and demeanor hint strongly at a summer departure. With multiple top clubs interested, the 20-year-old has a big decision ahead—whether to stay in England, return to Spain, or test himself in a new league.
One thing is certain: Manchester United will not let him go cheaply. They see Garnacho as a major asset, even if manager Rúben Amorim believes otherwise.
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