Man Utd wanted Belgian star to replace Garnacho

Manchester United attempted to land Lyon winger Malick Fofana as a replacement for Alejandro Garnacho, who left for Chelsea.

The Red Devils parted ways with Garnacho following an extended transfer saga. He was deemed surplus to requirements in May itself, but did not leave the club until the final days of the summer transfer window.

United wanted to find a quick successor after his exit, and Foot Mercato claim that they made an approach for Fofana with the help of super agent Jorge Mendes, who acted as an intermediary for a possible deal.

Talks were held with the player's father through Mendes, but there was no positive signal before the deadline. While Fofana was tempted by the move, his father did not give the green light for a switch to Old Trafford.

United are likely to monitor the Belgian's progress in the coming months and they could make a fresh move when the transfer window reopens.