Tensions are running high at Old Trafford after Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho agreed personal terms with Chelsea, with his portrait outside the stadium vandalised amid growing frustration from fans.
Softfootball understands Chelsea and United are in advanced negotiations over the transfer fee for the 21-year-old Argentine, with the London club pushing to pay under £40 million.
United, however, are holding out for closer to £50m, believing Garnacho should not leave for less than the £52m they received from Arsenal for Noni Madueke earlier this summer.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported the development on his official X handle, reporting that Manchester United fans decided to wreck the image as the player nears a permanent exit.
He tweeted:
“The portrait of Alejandro Garnacho vandalized outside Old Trafford as he has decided to join Chelsea.”
The Argentina international has been at the heart of growing tension with United’s management after being dropped for the Europa League final against Tottenham in May, a decision that left him furious. The Argentine granted an open interview to declare his Manchester United spell over, meaning there was no way for both parties to reconcile.
United previously rejected a £60m bid from Napoli in January, but with the player pushing for a move and Chelsea renewing their interest, the club may be forced to sell.
Garnacho, who scored 11 goals and provided 10 assists in 58 appearances last season, represents pure profit on United’s books and could free up funds for their pursuit of Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba.
Amorim has since admitted he understands Garnacho’s desire for a fresh start. The vandalised portrait has now become a striking symbol of the breakdown between Garnacho and United fans, as the forward edges closer to a headline move that could reshape both Chelsea’s attack and United’s rebuilding plans.
