Manchester United are reportedly on the verge of completing a new signing, with INEOS working to hijack a deal that Real Madrid had already agreed with the player.
The move signals the continued ambition of INEOS as they look to reshape the Manchester United squad under their ongoing rebuild at Old Trafford.
Real Madrid had appeared to be in pole position to land the player in question, with reports suggesting an agreement had already been reached between the Spanish giants and the player’s representatives.
However, Manchester United have now entered the race and are believed to be closing in on finalising terms of their own, threatening to derail Madrid’s plans entirely.
INEOS have been active in the transfer market as they look to strengthen the squad and provide the manager with the tools needed to compete on multiple fronts this season.
The development highlights the growing ambition within the club since INEOS took over, with the ownership group showing a willingness to move decisively when targets become available.
Real Madrid are one of the most powerful clubs in world football, and for United to attempt to pull a player away from an agreed deal speaks to the confidence of the current regime at Old Trafford.
Hijacking a deal at this stage of proceedings is far from straightforward, as player preferences and prior agreements can often prove difficult to overcome regardless of financial offers on the table.
Manchester United will be hoping that the appeal of the Premier League, combined with the project INEOS are building, is enough to convince the player to choose Old Trafford over the Bernabeu.
The situation is one to watch closely over the coming days, with both clubs expected to make their final pitches as the race to secure the signing reaches a conclusion.
