Man Utd transfer chief ‘holds talks in Saudi Arabia’ with four players worth combined £230million up for sale

MANCHESTER UNITED football director John Murtough has reportedly been in Saudi Arabia discussing potential exits from Old Trafford.

The Red Devils are looking to raise funds ahead of the January transfer window and are said to be ready to listen to offers for FOUR major players.

According to the Mail Online, Murtough held discussions with representatives from the Saudi Pro League over potential departures from Man Utd.

It is reported that Jadon Sancho, Raphael Varane, Anthony Martial and Casemiro are all up for grabs should the right offer come along.

It is understood that Murtough left the Middle East without coming to an agreement over potential deals, but is said to have penned in future talks.

Sancho, Varane, Martial and Casemiro cost Man Utd a whopping £230m in combined transfer fees and the club will be hoping to recoup as much of it as possible as they flirt with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules limit.

Sancho is widely reported to be the number one priority when it comes to offloading talent in the winter transfer window.

The former Borussia Dortmund and England star has been banished from the first team squad after his war-of-words with manager Erik ten Hag.

While United are said to be open to offers for underperforming trio Martial, Varane and Casemiro but will not try and force them away from the club.

Ten Hag is looking to strengthen his side who have had a disappointing campaign following their exit from the Champions League group stages.

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But growing financial pressure on top of the £200m spent on Ramsus Hojlund, Mason Mount and Andre Onana this summer means they will need to raise funds before making any signings.

Murtough could be in charge of his final transfer window for United too with the imminent arrival of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos investment at the club.

The British billionaire is reportedly keen to shake things up when he completes his 25 per cent takeover and will be taking control of football operations.

Reports have suggested that Murtough could be one of the casualties of any changes following Ratcliffe’s arrival.

Former Juventus chief executive Jean-Claude Blanc has emerged as one of the favourites to land a job due to his connections to Ineos.

While Crystal Palace sporting director Dougie Freedman is also in the frame to lead transfers.

Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk