‘What I can tell you’: Man Utd wanted to sign £19m star to replace Garnacho – Journalist

Manchester United made a last-minute attempt to sign Brighton & Hove Albion playmaker Julio Enciso before his loan move to Ipswich Town, according to journalist Christian Martin.

The Red Devils are looking into the transfer market for potential attacking additions. They have already sanctioned Antony’s loan exit, and there could be more departures soon.

Marcus Rashford has been tipped to leave on loan with interest from Barcelona. Alejandro Garnacho could also head for the exit door with Napoli and Chelsea keen on his services.

Martin now reports that United wanted Enciso to replace Garnacho in case he leaves.

However, the Paraguayan turned down interest from the Red Devils, Borussia Dortmund and Valencia to join Ipswich, where he has the guarantee of a regular starting spot.

Martin told Versus: “What I can tell you is that at the last minute of yesterday’s day, a call from Manchester United arrived.

“Manchester United wanted Julio to be potentially the replacement in case Garnacho goes to Napoli or another club.

“There are several interested, Garnacho has had a problem with Amorim.

“The situation is not the same in the club that he grew up, Garnacho has been playing for many years as a youth player and immediately came the call from the United board to attempt Julio.

“The answer of the Paraguayan, thank you but no thank you, I want to play.

“Julio turns 21 tomorrow, we are already talking about a Paraguayan boy on the other side of the world in the most competitive league that is fighting for his future and really say no to Borussia Dortmund, say no to Manchester United, say no to Valencia, prioritise that, playing, he wants to play from the start.”

Enciso is an attacking midfielder by trade. The 21-year-old played just 288 minutes for Brighton earlier this season, registering one goal and one assist in the process.

Despite his limited goal contributions, the £19 million-rated star has shown his potential on occasions. He has excelled with his high pressing and dribbling ability in the final third.

The Paraguayan ace also likes to attempt long-range shots. His attributes may have tempted manager Ruben Amorim, but he has chosen to join the Tractor Boys instead.

The decision is justifiable as he does not have the guarantee of a starting position, with Bruno Fernandes and Amad Diallo being undisputed starters in attacking midfield.

It appears United want a successor if Garnacho departs. They seem to be eyeing a cost-effective replacement instead of making a huge outlay on a marquee signing.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .