Manchester United lose transfer race to Manchester City

LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 27: manager Pep Guardiola of Manchester City looks on during the Carabao Cup Round of 16 match between West Ham United and Manchester City at London Stadium on October 27, 2021 in London, England. (Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 27: manager Pep Guardiola of Manchester City looks on during the Carabao Cup Round of 16 match between West Ham United and Manchester City at London Stadium on October 27, 2021 in London, England. (Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)

Manchester United appear to have decided to wait until a long-term manager is in place before making transfer moves. Ralf Rangnick is only the interim manager of the club till the end of the season after which he is set to take a consultancy role at Old Trafford. Thus, while a sensible plan, it has resulted in the Red Devils losing transfer races for several players who could have been solid signings.

Julian Alvarez appears to be the latest name in the quickly growing list. As tweeted out by Fabrizio Romano, Manchester City have agreed a deal to sign the Argentine star, who will remain at River Plate on loan until July.

Alvarez was an absolute standout for River Plate in the recent season. According to stats from Transfermarkt, he scored 18 goals and provided 7 assists in 21 appearances for the club in the 2021 league season.

As a result, he has been linked with several clubs around Europe in recent times, including Manchester United, but it is their crosstown rivals who have won the race for the Argentine’s signature.

Manchester United lose out to Manchester City in Alvarez transfer race

It is safe to say that Alvarez would have been an interesting signing for Manchester United. Still 21 years of age, he has tremendous potential to say the least and if he can adjust to the Premier League, this can prove to be an inspired move on the part of Manchester City.

It remains to be seen how things unfold in that regard. For Manchester United though, it appears that the focus is on outgoings rather than incomings this January.

Anthony Martial has joined Sevilla on loan till the end of the season while Donny van de Beek is being heavily linked with a loan exit as well, with Crystal Palace and Valencia believed to be interested in the Dutch midfielder’s signature.