Man Utd ‘interested’ in star with release clause as Fabrizio Romano issues takeover verdict

Manchester United are now closing in on their return to Premier League action.

The Red Devils are still hoping to add to their Carabao Cup trophy before the end of the season, still in with a chance of winning the FA Cup and Europa League, but they also have business to take care of in the Premier League. United are currently in charge of third spot, but this weekend’s opponents Newcastle are just three points worse off, in fifth place.

As Erik ten Hag’s men prepare for their trip to the North East, we have rounded up all the latest news surrounding Old Trafford.

Takeover claim

Fabrizio Romano has issued his verdict on Thomas Zilliacus’ reported takeover interest in United.

“Honestly, I am not one to doubt him and his bid and this project. But at the same point, it’s just a feeling because, you know, I’m not into the negotiations and so we don’t know exactly what’s going on,” Romano told The United Stand.

“But the feeling of sources close to the negotiation is that the Qatari group and the INEOS group are the two big favourites. So if something will happen, these look like the two big favourites to buy Manchester United. Then we know that in football in general, and especially in a sales process with top clubs like Manchester United, we never know until the end. But these two groups are the two big favourites, for sure.”

Min-jae interest

Elsewhere, it’s being claimed United are interested in a move for South Korean defender Kim Min-jae.

According to Romano, via CaughtOffside, the Napoli defender has a release clause worth £43.9million that is only valid until July. That gives United a potential opening to strike a deal this summer.

Min-jae has been key for Napoli this season, with Luciano Spalletti’s men looking set to win the Serie A title.