Manchester United are on the verge of completing two major midfield signings worth nearly £100 million, while Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill has confirmed a release clause in his contract that could facilitate a cut-price move to Old Trafford.
Orlando Gill Confirms Release Clause Amid United Interest
Orlando Gill, Paraguay's World Cup goalkeeper, has acknowledged he has a clause in his contract that could allow a transfer to Manchester United. The 26-year-old has impressed at the World Cup with standout performances against Germany and France, placing him on United's shortlist as competition for No. 1 Senne Lammens.
Argentinian publication Clarin reported that Gill's current club, San Lorenzo, faces nearly £50 million in debt, which could ease a transfer. The report also states Gill has a release clause of approximately £5.2 million. Speaking after returning to Paraguay, Gill said: "I can't say yes or no. They told me there is interest, but not a formal offer. I don't want to get carried away. We'll sit down and speak with the club to see what is best." He added: "I have a clause in my contract and I think it has to be respected. Then it depends on the club. If it's good for both parties, we'll have to reach an agreement."
Andrey Santos £50m Move Under Scrutiny by United Legends
United are reportedly close to completing the signing of Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos for £50 million, with the Brazilian having undergone a medical. However, Old Trafford legends Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt have expressed reservations about the investment.
On The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast, Scholes said: "Where've they seen him play enough games? United aren't in the position to be buying players for the future at this point." Butt echoed: "He's young and he's for the future. It's a surprise because we've been looking at big hitters coming in but we're looking at his potential. The big thing for me is if he's been brought in to come and start for us, United and Carrick don't have time to let people bed in."
Santos, 22, made 43 appearances for Chelsea last season, competing with over £200 million worth of midfield talent in Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo. He previously had an underwhelming loan spell at Nottingham Forest in 2023/24 but has since transformed after a stint at Strasbourg and his breakthrough at Chelsea.
United's Summer Spending Spree Continues
Santos is expected to arrive alongside Brazilian compatriot Ederson, forming part of a new generation of samba flair at United. The twin deal is worth close to £100 million, with further business likely as Michael Carrick's side accelerates its summer expenditure. United also face competition from Aston Villa for Gill, but the goalkeeper's release clause and San Lorenzo's financial troubles could smooth a move.
