Transfer Centre

Man United transfer news: Erik ten Hag 'makes special request' to sign 30-year-old

By Carter White | 25 June 2024

Long-awaited Premier League move: Ten Hag 'makes special request' for World Cup winner

Manchester United are reportedly considering a move for Roma attacker Paulo Dybala, with Erik ten Hag requesting that the Red Devils pursue a deal for the Argentine.

Manchester United are reportedly interested in the signing of Roma attacker Paulo Dybala this summer.

The 30-year-old is currently having the summer off after not being selected for Argentina's Copa America squad for the tournament in the United States.

That does not mean that Dybala did not enjoy a productive campaign for Roma, though, with the forward netting 13 goals and providing nine assists in 28 Serie A matches.

Under the stewardship of Jose Mourinho and then Daniele De Rossi, the Giallorossi finished sixth in the top-flight standings, missing out on Champions League football by just a single place.

If he is to stay at Roma this summer, Dybala would therefore be fighting for glory in next season's Europa League, which is better than some sides who are in for his services.

Roma's Paulo Dybala celebrates scoring their first goal on March 7, 2024 © Reuters

Man United keen on Roma's Dybala?

According to The Sun, Manchester United have added a new target to their shortlist of options during this summer's transfer window, as the Red Devils desperately aim to improve on an eighth-placed finish last season.

The report claims that Erik ten Hag's troops are looking at the possibility of signing Dybala from Roma ahead of the upcoming 2024-25 term.

It is understood that United's Dutch head coach has specifically requested that the club pursue a move for the 2022 World Cup winner during the off-season.

With a reported £10.2m release clause in his Roma contract, which expires on July 31, the Red Devils feel that they could secure the player for a relative bargain considering his pedigree.

Roma are keen to keep the 30-year-old at the club, however talks over renewed terms have not progressed and the player's current deal expires during the summer of 2025.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou pictured in March 2024 © Reuters

Chelsea, Tottenham also admirers of Dybala

As well as Man United, there are two more heavyweights of the English game who are interested in a potential summer swoop for Dybala ahead of the new campaign.

One of these is Enzo Maresca's Chelsea, who have previously opened talks with the representatives of the attacker over a possible move to Stamford Bridge.

Losing Harry Kane to Bayern Munich last summer, Ange Postecoglou's Tottenham Hotspur are still in the hunt for attacking reinforcements to complement the likes of Son Heung-min.

Man United commence their pre-season schedule with a friendly clash against Norwegian outfit Rosenborg on July 15, when Dybala could be part of the squad.