Manchester United are preparing a €70m bid for Athletic Club star Oihan Sancet
Manchester United stand again at a crossroads. They are searching for a new creative source to restore balance in their attack. Under Ruben Amorim, the club continues their transition and plans every move for the long term instead of choosing quick fixes. The manager demands fluid play and intensity.
He wants a midfielder who connects lines while scoring goals himself. That need has turned their attention toward Oihan Sancet, the rising star of Athletic Club. He continues to impress in La Liga with his finishing ability and his sharp movement off the ball. Reports from the Spanish outlet Fichajes claim that the Red Devils plan to make a €70 millionoffer to test Athletic Club’s resolve.
The Basque side follows a strict local-only policy, which makes Sancet an especially valuable player and hard to find in the market. The 25-year-old scored 15 goals and provided one assist in 29 league matches during the 2024–25 campaign. His consistency and technical strength are his definitive traits.
At 25, Sancet shows the power needed for English football and controls the ball confidently in tight areas. Meanwhile, we reported earlier that Manchester United want at least £80 million for Bruno Fernandes. The club does have some plans in mind. Meanwhile, Fernandes’ future at Manchester United remains uncertain as Bayern Munich circle.
A Strategic Gamble That Could Define Amorim’s Vision
If the deal happens, it will show a bold shift in strategy instead of a reaction to pressure. Amorim wants his team to play with rhythm and purpose; Sancet should be a good signing for that plan perfectly. He plays both as an attacking midfielder and in deeper roles, which will provide United with more flexibility.
This will, in turn, let Amorim adjust the team’s shape without losing balance. The €70 million offer is definitely showing the club’s intent, but it stays below his reported €80 million release clause. United are looking to test Athletic’s stance confidently while avoiding an excessive bid.
Arsenal’s presence is a concern, to be honest. Mikel Arteta reportedly sees Sancet as an ideal partner for Martin Ødegaard. He aims to add more drive and strength to Arsenal’s midfield. Arsenal run a steady project and play Champions League football regularly, which could attract a player eager to compete for trophies right away.
United offer a rebuilding challenge filled with ambition, while Arsenal offer structure and success. If both clubs push hard, the transfer could turn into a Premier League tug-of-war. Yet for Amorim, signing Sancet would send a strong message. It could turn a flat midfield into the beating heart of a real revival, but it’s a tough job.