Manchester United Transfer News Roundup: Red Devils unlikely to target Thomas Frank, Napoli want Mason Greenwood, and more - May 16, 2024
Manchester United secured a 3-2 win over Newcastle United in the Premier League on Wednesday, May 15, at Old Trafford. Goals from Amad Diallo, Kobbie Mainoo, and Rasmus Hojlund marked a fruitful night for Erik ten Hag.
Meanwhile, the Red Devils are not eyeing a move for Thomas Frank this summer. Elsewhere, Napoli have set their sights on Mason Greenwood.
On that note, let's look at the major Manchester United transfer stories from May 16, 2024.
Manchester United not eyeing Thomas Frank, says journalist
Manchester United are unlikely to opt for Thomas Frank as Erik ten Hag's replacement, according to journalist Dean Jones. The Dutch manager's future at Old Trafford remains up in the air following an indifferent second season. Recent reports have suggested that the Brentford manager has been identified as an option to replace Ten Hag.
Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Jones admitted that the Red Devils admire Frank.
"There is admiration for Thomas Frank at Manchester United, but I think we have to put our foot on the ball and realise that their new figures of power have been going through such an extensive process to make sure they have the best understanding of the game in its current state that they have spoken to and sounded out a lot of voices in the football world,” said Jones.
However, Jones pointed out that Manchester United are unlikely to turn to Frank if they decide to sack Ten Hag.
"Don’t forget it was not long ago that Gary O’Neil was being talked about as a candidate. We are also getting some people reporting Kieran McKenna could take over now. It’s very difficult to know where Manchester United would turn if they sack Erik ten Hag, and I do believe that Frank has attributes that are impressive,” said Jones.
He continued:
“But it is a big leap to go from Brentford to managing Manchester United, and it is very unlikely. It is a similar story with Ipswich and McKenna, even though he is obviously known at the club."
The Red Devils are in the FA Cup final this season but remain eight in the Premier League with one game left to play.
Napoli want Mason Greenwood
Napoli have entered the race to sign Mason Greenwood this summer, according to Corriere dello Sport. The disgraced English winger has slowly begun to turn his career around at Getafe, after joining the club on loan from Manchester United last summer. Greenwood has scored ten goals and set up six more from 34 outings across competitions this season.
The player's contract with the Premier League giants expires in 2025 and the club are unlikely to offer him a new deal. They want to cash in on him this summer amid rising interest in his services. Juventus are already hot on the heels of the 22-year-old, but Napoli are ready to ruin their plans.
Wayne Rooney advises Red Devils to build team around Bruno Fernandes
Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has advised the club to build their team around Bruno Fernandes. The Portuguese midfielder's future at Old Trafford has been the talk of the town of late. Fernandes remains a vital cog in Erik ten Hag's setup and played a key role in Wednesday's win over Newcastle United.
Speaking after the win, Rooney suggested that his former club should keep hold of Bruno and the younger players and offload the others.
"You have to build around Bruno. I think you have to build a team around Bruno. He's the one player with quality. He has got fight in him. I think the young players and then I think all of the other players... get rid of them,” said Rooney.
He continued:
"I think you keep the young players, you keep Bruno and I think there has to be a massive clear out. It's not going to all be in one year, but I think it's going to be over the next couple of years."
Bruno Fernandes has appeared 46 times across competitions this season, registering 15 goals and 12 assists.