Manchester United could hand Liverpool double transfer ‘blow’ as deal ‘message’ sent

Manchester United could deal Liverpool a double transfer ‘blow’ - according to reports.

That’s because the Red Devils are rumoured to have entered the race for two players who are also on the radar of the Merseysiders.

While it remains unclear who will be leading United into the 2022/23 Premier League campaign, that hasn’t stopped the rumour mill from turning - ahead of what could be a busy summer at Old Trafford.

A host of players have been linked with United, but they are likely to face some serious competition from other top flight clubs.

Here’s what the latest transfer gossip is saying:

Manchester United enter race for Ajax winger

Manchester United are set to ‘intensify’ their interest in Ajax winger Antony.

That’s according to 90min, who claim that the Red Devils are one of several Premier League sides keen on the Brazilian.

Antony has featured regularly for his national side in recent months and has emerged as a standout performer in the Eredivisie - which has naturally drawn interest from elsewhere.

The report suggests that Liverpool have been long-term admirers of the 21-year-old, while Chelsea and Manchester City have also been linked.

But United could deal that trio a blow if they do step-up their interest and pursue a move for the wideman.

Reports last year suggested that the Dutch side had slapped a price tag of around €40million2 on Antony.

Red Devils rival Liverpool and Arsenal for England international

And Antony may not be the only player United battle Liverpool for in the summer transfer window.

Spanish outlet Fichajes claim that the duo are set to go up against Arsenal in the race for Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips.

While the 26-year-old has been absent through injury in recent weeks, interest in his services hasn’t cooled - with a number of the Premier League’s elite monitoring his situation.

The report from Spain suggests that United view Phillips as a potential replacement for Paul Pogba, whose future remains unclear with less than six months remaining on his contract.

Liverpool, meanwhile, are said to want to pair Phillips with Fabinho in the centre of their midfield.

United sent transfer message over in-demand midfielder

Another midfield option for the Red Devils is RB Leipzig’s Christopher Nkunku.

Ralf Rangnick is understood to have pushed for the club to pursue the Frenchman having previously seen his talent at first hand in the Bundesliga.

And reports in Germany via SportBild claim that United and other potential suitors have been sent a clear message over the in-demand midfielder - having been told they will have to shell out around £45.8million to land the 24-year-old.

Nkunku doesn’t have a release clause in his contract, and scored his 20th goal of the current campaign this week.

Arsenal and Manchester City have also been linked with the former PSG man.