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 and could join Barcelona. Alejandro Garnacho could also head for the exit door with Napoli and Chelsea keen on him.
United reportedly wanted Enciso to replace Garnacho if he leaves.
However, he turned down interest from United, Borussia Dortmund and Valencia to join Ipswich, where he is guaranteed a 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’.
Enciso is an attacking midfielder by trade. The 21-year-old played 288 minutes for Brighton earlier this season, registering one goal and one assist.
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.
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.
