MANCHESTER UNITED target Ousmane Dembele looks set to stay at Barcelona, according to reports.
The news will come as a major setback to the Red Devils, who had been in contact with the Frenchman’s agent in recent weeks.
Liverpool have challenged Man Utd for Dembele’s signature but the winger is reportedly happy at the Nou Camp.
Dembele is focused on Barcelona and has no desire to move to Old Trafford, according to Catalan newspaper Mundo Deportivo.
The 23-year-old’s current contract expires in 2022, sparking interest from United and Juventus, per the report.
However, his positive form for Barca – with 10 goals and four assists this season – means Dembele is now enjoying his football once again.
His star performances for club also earned Dembele a recall to the France national team, and the La Liga title is now within reach.
Previous reports hinted Dembele would reject contract talks at Barcelona, giving Man Utd hope of a transfer deal.
But now that the former Borussia Dortmund man is a key part of Ronald Koeman’s plans, it is perhaps more likely he will sign a new deal than leave.
The Barca ace is finally beginning to prove he is an important player for Barcelona having signed in 2017 in a £110million deal.
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The news is also a blow for Chelsea, who were believed to be monitoring the future of Dembele.
Man Utd signed young winger Amad Diallo in January and have alternatives to Dembele on their shortlist, including Dortmund prodigy Jadon Sancho.
Dan James has also shown a resurgence in recent weeks so Ole Gunnar Solskjaer may not be so desperate for a new wide man.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
