Darren Fletcher has warned Manchester United that their transfer move for Ousmane Dembele ‘comes with risks’, citing the Barcelona winger’s injury record and reported poor timekeeping.
United’s top priority transfer target all summer has been Jadon Sancho, but with Borussia Dortmund not willing to negotiate on their £110 million valuation, a deal is yet to be struck.
Dembele has been identified as an alternative, and United have reportedly contacted Barca and the player’s representatives over a possible loan deal, while the Catalan club are said to prefer a permanent deal.
The 23-year-old was regarded as one of Europe’s finest young talents when he left Borussia Dortmund for Camp Nou in 2017, but his mega-money move to Spain hasn’t worked out.
After lengthy spells on the sidelines with injuries and reports that he has consistently turned up late to training, ex-United midfielder Fletcher warned his former side over the risks of bringing Dembele to Old Trafford and suggested a loan deal may be more suitable than a permanent signing.
‘It suggests that they are moving on from Jadon Sancho, Fletcher told Sky Sports. ‘I think Ousmane Dembele’s a right-winger, a position they are finally identifying.
‘Barcelona purchased him for £100m or something like that. I think a loan deal would suit United, and probably both parties, I think he needs a fresh challenge, coming to a massive club like Manchester United.
‘It comes with its risks – his injury record is not great over the last few seasons – I think he only made five league appearances last season, but he’s a talented player.
‘United should give him the opportunity to showcase himself and be the player everyone thought he was going to become.’
