Overview

• Sources at ESPN and others report advanced talks over a total package in the £35–40m range, with no final agreement yet but a deal targeted before Monday’s 7 p.m. BST deadline.
• Garnacho has been told he can leave United, was frozen out by Ruben Amorim after last season, and was omitted from the preseason tour to train away from the main squad.
• The 21-year-old prefers a move to Stamford Bridge and rejected alternative options, including an approach from Bayern Munich, according to multiple reports.
• Chelsea’s pursuit resumed after working on exits to satisfy a UEFA sanction that has required balancing the books, with further outgoings progressing to enable a move.
• Separate reports suggest Tottenham’s interest in RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons could reshape Chelsea’s attacking priorities and affect United’s negotiating position.