Man Utd ‘bid hard’ for La Liga forward with £26m release clause; ‘prepare’ £78m for Juve star

Man Utd are reportedly pursuing Villarreal-linked forward Etta Eyong and preparing big bids for young talents, which could lower odds on United scoring multiple goals in upcoming matches if new attacking signings arrive. Punters might consider markets like Over 1.5 or 2.5 goals for United and first-goal specials if a forward signing is confirmed before key fixtures.

Man Utd step up pursuit of Villarreal-linked forward as winter targets mount

Man Utd are reportedly bidding hard to secure 21-year-old forward Etta Eyong, with sources claiming contact has been opened to get ahead in the race. The club have already invested heavily this summer and appear determined to bolster their attacking options again ahead of the January window.

Summer spending and current form

United spent in excess of £200m on new recruits this summer, bringing in players such as Matheus Cunha, Benjamin Sesko and Bryan Mbeumo. Despite those additions, the side have struggled for consistency in the Premier League, registering three wins, three losses and a draw from their opening seven matches, and suffering an early League Cup exit to a lower-league side.

Eyong: contract details and transfer dynamics

Reports suggest Eyong, who recently won his first senior cap for Cameroon, is valued with a €30m buyout clause, although contractual quirks mean a sale could be possible for nearer €15m. Both clubs holding his rights are understood to be willing to sell to the highest bidder, making him a potential bargain target if United move quickly.

Player preferences and competing interest

Despite reported interest from England, the forward is said to prefer staying in Spain and has expressed admiration for Barcelona, a relationship that could influence his next move.

Other targets: midfield and attacking youth

United are also linked with a move for a promising Brighton midfielder who could request a switch in January, and sources say the club are preparing a major bid — reportedly in the region of €90m — for a Juventus youngster, with Arsenal and Chelsea monitoring the situation. Squad turnover could also see names like Joshua Zirkzee moved on to free up space and funds.

Betting implications

Any confirmed attacking signing ahead of upcoming fixtures would likely shorten United’s odds in markets related to goals scored, increasing the appeal of Over 1.5/2.5 goals for United and boosting first-goal and anytime-scorer market interest for new forwards. If a signing is announced late in a transfer window, matchbook volatility could present value for punters who react quickly.

Outlook

With United actively pursuing forwards and young talents, the January window could be decisive in reshaping their attacking profile and correcting early-season inconsistencies. The club’s willingness to outbid rivals suggests a proactive transfer strategy aimed at delivering short-term impact.

Man Utd are looking to get a deal over the line for new Villarreal forward Etta Eyong and are 'bidding hard', according to reports.

Football365