Manchester United news today centres on two late transfer developments and Saturday’s final major pre-season assignment, with Radek Vitek heading for Middlesbrough and Cristian Orozco officially arriving at Old Trafford.
Michael Carrick is also preparing United to face Paris Saint-Germain in Gothenburg, where the European champions may still be without several players who returned late following the World Cup.
Manchester United news today as £14m Vitek deal agreed
United have agreed to sell Vitek to Middlesbrough in a package which could eventually reach £14million.
The deal is particularly interesting because United have protected themselves if the 22-year-old continues his development. A 35% sell-on clause, matching rights and a buy-back option have all been reported as part of the agreement.
Read our full breakdown of the Radek Vitek deal and its major clauses. Fabrizio Romano reported that the initial fee is £7m, with add-ons potentially taking the package to £14m.
Vitek impressed while on loan at Bristol City last season, but regular first-team opportunities at United would have been difficult to guarantee. The structure allows United to cash in without entirely surrendering their interest in his future.
Cristian Orozco officially joins Manchester United
There was movement in the opposite direction late on Thursday as United officially confirmed Cristian Orozco’s arrival from Fortaleza CEIF.
The Colombian midfielder only recently turned 18, allowing the previously agreed international transfer to be completed. United say Orozco will initially receive support from the Academy as he adjusts to his new surroundings.
Read more about Cristian Orozco completing his long-awaited Manchester United move.
Orozco should not be viewed as an immediate answer to Carrick’s senior midfield requirements. His arrival instead continues United’s attempt to identify high-potential young players before their values rise substantially.
PSG next as Carrick prepares for final friendly
Attention will soon return to the pitch.
United face Paris Saint-Germain at 5pm on Saturday in Gothenburg, with Luis Enrique’s side playing only their second friendly of the summer. PSG’s own pre-season schedule confirms that several World Cup players had their returns postponed after deep runs in the tournament.
Read why United could avoid six major PSG players on Saturday.
United have enjoyed considerably more preparation time, having already faced Wrexham, Rosenborg and Atletico Madrid. Saturday should therefore offer Carrick one final opportunity to assess his side against elite opposition before competitive football returns.
For Manchester United news today, the picture is one of movement at both ends of the squad. Vitek is heading out, Orozco has arrived and Carrick now has another significant match in which to assess what he still needs before the transfer window closes.
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