Red Devils have joined cross-town rivals Man City with interest in exciting Real Sociedad forward Mikel Oyarzabal. The Norwegian manager is on the battle for a quality wide option this summer, with Spain international a cheaper option than Borussia Dortmund attacker Jadon Sancho.
It’s claimed that Man United are confident of landing Mikel for no more than €50m, which means they’re sure they can land the ace for at least €20m lower than his release clause. Real Sociedad sit 7th in La Liga, with the Basque club still capable of securing Europa League qualification despite a difficult final two matches of the campaign.
Of course, Man City are also in the market to strengthen in this position after losing Leroy Sane to Bayern Munich, it’s suggested that Red Devils entering the battle could cause them to step up their efforts. Oyarzabal has been in inspired form for the side this campaign, contributing 10 goals and 11 assists in 35 La Liga games this term.
The 23-year-old forward is predominantly used as a left-winger but has some experience of playing on the opposite flank. With Ole Gunnar Solskjaer transitioning Anthony Martial into a centre-forward, with Marcus Rashford also occasionally deployed down the middle, Man United need another quality option on the wings.
The Spaniard has a £64m release clause in his deal, which runs until 2024. But Red Devils chiefs are believed to be confident of negotiating a cut-price deal in the region of £45m. Man City could step up their interest in the winger as a result of Red Devils entering the fray. Mikel has been involved in 21 goals in 35 La Liga games this campaign.
