Manchester United will consider Barcelona forward for January transfer – report

As the January transfer window of 2023 starts kicking into gear, speculations surrounding the future of Barcelona forward Memphis Depay continue to pick up steam.

The 28-year-old is in the final six months of his contract and has fallen down the pecking order at Spotify Camp Nou this term. Given his situation, several clubs have taken a look at the experienced forward as a possible target for the winter.

And, according to The Athletic, Depay’s former club Manchester United are also considering a move for the Barcelona striker in the ongoing transfer window.

The Red Devils parted ways with club legend Cristiano Ronaldo last month, with the Portuguese signing for Saudi Arabian giants Al Nassr.

His exit has left a gaping hole in the attacking department at Old Trafford, with manager Erik ten Hag looking for a new striker who can be available for a reasonable price.

That is where Depay enters the picture. Considering that he has just six months left on his deal, the Dutchman is unlikely to command a big fee while his wages should also be within the reach of the Premier League giants.

While his previous stint in Manchester was hardly a memorable one, the 28-year-old is a much more well-rounded player now and the presence of Ten Hag, who knows his fellow Dutchman well, could be another factor that could entice the Red Devils into a move.

Barcelona, for their part, would be open to offloading Depay even though Xavi insisted otherwise earlier today in his press conference. Given their Fair Play situation, an exit of a player who is not a big part of the manager’s plans would be welcomed.

However, Depay does not want to leave Camp Nou mid-season as he wishes to move on in the summer as a free agent, which would allow him to pick a club of his choosing and grant him added financial benefits.

But, Fabrizio Romano reported on Monday that in case Depay was offered an important role in an interesting project by a top club, he would consider leaving Barcelona.

Furthermore, it has been reported that the 28-year-old is growing tired of being overlooked at Barcelona even when he is in a better shape than some of his teammates.

Depay and Manchester United had held talks about a reunion in the summer, although it was largely pushed by the player’s entourage. However, with the situation at Old Trafford being as it is, they might decide to make a push for the Netherlands star’s signature.