12 May 2023 , 02:00
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Manchester United will need to remain focused on their upcoming Premier League fixtures, despite having an FA Cup final on the horizon.
United will take on neighbours Manchester City at Wembley on June 3, by which time they will know if they're still standing in the way of a treble for their rivals. Before then, though, there's the small matter of ensuring they finish above one of Newcastle and Liverpool to qualify for the Champions League.
Takeover news also continues to loom large for the Red Devils, while there is inevitable transfer talk ahead of an important summer. Here are the latest lines from around Old Trafford.
Amad hint dropped
Manchester United are preparing to fit Amad with an FA Cup final suit ahead of the Wembley meeting with Manchester City, according to the Manchester Evening News. The 20-year-old won't feature in the final, though, having already played for Sunderland in earlier rounds.
The Ivorian international's form at the Stadium of Light has caught the eye, prompting talk of a role in United's first team next term. He has scored 13 goals for the Championship side, and has a chance to add to that tally in the play-offs.
Marcel Sabitzer completes Man Utd transfer after last-minute deadline day dash
Sunderland are due to take on Luton Town in the semi-finals of the play-offs. If they succeed, a trip to Wembley of their own will await ahead of potential back-to-back promotions.
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Bidders lay in wait
Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani are set to find out within days which of them has been successful in bidding for Man Utd. British billionaire Ratcliffe is reported to be on the verge of a big lead in the race, though nothing is confirmed at the time of writing.
Which bidder would you prefer to win? Have your say in the comments section
Sir Jim Ratcliffe has been tipped to win the bidding war (AFP via Getty Images)Sheikh Jassim's bid, for 100 per cent of the club, is understood to be worth more. However, Ratcliffe - in merely taking a majority stake, could allow current owners the Glazer family to retain an interest.
According to The Sun, the latter is now considered preferable to those in charge. Reports suggest Raine Group, in charge of the takeover process, could name INEOS chief Ratcliffe as the successful bidder within days.
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Ferguson bid urged
Manchester United have been encouraged to sign Evan Ferguson, with the Brighton striker having his praises sung by Kevin Kilbane. The teenage Ireland striker signed a new Seagulls deal this season, but his compatriot Kilbane has identified him as a more affordable option than the likes of Harry Kane.
“I think he’s got everything. There’s so much to admire about his game,” Kilbane told the Off The Ball Football Show (via TeamTalk ). “What he has is that physical presence, he’s six foot three, he can run off the shoulder. He’s also got that little bit of pace."
Man Utd deadline day live updates as Sabitzer completes loan move
The former Everton winger gave a total of 10 reasons for United to move for the 18-year-old. Ferguson has impressed for Brighton under Roberto De Zerbi, and was a big miss as they lost to United in their FA Cup semi-final.
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