Turkic giants Fenerbahçe have made a move for Anthony Martial, 28, who has lost his place at Manchester United. Fenerbahçe, who have half a year left on his contract with the Red Devils, have sent a ‘first offer’ to United in a bid to bring him back this winter. Fenerbahçe were also linked with United last summer and the two clubs have a ‘good relationship’.
Turkiye outlet Takbeam reported on Wednesday (April 3) that “Fenerbahçe are targeting Marcial in the winter transfer window. Fenerbahçe’s plan is to spend a reasonable transfer fee this winter and bring Marcial to the club.” “Fenerbahçe, who want to capitalize on their good relationship with United, are looking to sign Marcial for a small transfer fee and have made an initial offer of €8 million.”
The Red Devils are looking to bolster their attack this winter transfer window, with Timo Werner (27-Leipzig) and Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting (34-Bayern Munich) among those who could be available in the short-term, but it’s time to say goodbye to their established strikers. Jadon Sancho (23), who has fallen out with manager Eric ten Hagh (53-Netherlands), has been linked with a loan move to Dortmund, while Martial, who is entering his ninth season at United, is also on the release list.
Martial’s contract with United expires this summer. United have an option for a one-year extension, but given the player’s position, it is unlikely they will exercise it. With his future uncertain, Fenerbahçe were the first to make an offer. Fenerbahçe have been monitoring the player’s situation for a while and have been looking at the possibility of a move. When United were ready to let him go, they sprang into action.
Fenerbahçe are so close to United that they made two deals last summer. Fenerbahçe acquired Fred (30) from United, and United acquired Altay Bayundr (25) from Fenerbahçe. The two transactions established goodwill between the two clubs, and it has been suggested that this will have an impact on the Marcial saga.
According to Taksim, “Fenerbahçe’s management aims to secure a favorable position in transfer talks with United. The fact that Marcial is nearing the end of his contract is a reason for the transfer to take place at a lower fee. Such a situation would not only suit Fenerbahçe’s budget, but would also give Marcial a new direction.”
The French international made waves when he arrived at United in the summer of 2015 in a €60 million deal. While the club was heavily criticized for paying such a huge fee for a player who was little more than a promising prospect, Martial has since established himself as an integral part of the team with his pace and flair.
In 2019-20, he was at the peak of his powers, amassing 23 goals and 12 assists in all competitions, including 17 goals and seven assists in the Premier League. However, low workload and frequent injuries held him back, and he eventually lost his place in the starting lineup. This season, he’s had a disappointing campaign as well, with just two goals and two assists in 19 games.
