Man United’s Hidden Earnings: Summer Sell-On Fees from Former Players
Manchester United Profits from Player Sales and Plans to Reinforce Squad
Manchester United is generating significant revenue through sell-on clauses from former players transferring to new clubs this summer. The club aims to strengthen its squad after a challenging season that saw them finish 15th in the Premier League under new manager Ruben Amorim.
Their campaign could have been brighter had they secured victory in the Europa League final, but they narrowly lost 1-0 to Tottenham. With pressure mounting on Amorim, the club is actively pursuing new signings, supported by recent investments in the transfer market.
Notable acquisitions include Matheus Cunha for £62.5 million from Wolverhampton Wanderers and Diego Leon from Cerro Porteno for £7 million. The club is also in negotiations for Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford, though they have yet to meet the £65 million valuation.
The transfer window has also been favorable in terms of reverse deals, exemplified by Anthony Elanga’s move to Newcastle for £55 million. Due to a sell-on clause, United received approximately £6 million of this fee, representing 15% of the profit from the sale. Elanga, who spent eight years at United, left for Nottingham Forest in 2023 and quickly established himself as a Premier League regular.
Similarly, former United player Alvaro Carreras is close to transferring from Benfica to Real Madrid for around £43 million. United will earn about £7.2 million from the profit margin based on their sell-on agreement, after Carreras’ earlier move from Madrid’s youth ranks for a modest fee.
The club’s earnings from these transfers may bolster their summer transfer budget as they look to rebuild ahead of a critical season. Meanwhile, they are also strategizing to offload additional players, including Marcus Rashford, who is a target for Juventus.
Future Squad Changes
United is considering selling several players, including Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, Tyrell Malacia, Antony, and Jadon Sancho, as part of their broader squad restructuring plans. Despite a season without European competition, the club remains eager to add quality reinforcements.