Manchester United are set to launch a £38 million bid for River Plate’s teenage sensation, widely hailed as “the Argentine Phil Foden” for his dazzling creativity, elite technique, and tactical intelligence. The club is accelerating talks in the aftermath of their crushing 1-0 defeat to Tottenham in the Europa League final.
Under Ruben Amorim’s command, the Red Devils are shifting toward a youth-driven rebuild, and this 18-year-old prodigy is seen as a centerpiece of that vision. United’s scouts, who’ve monitored him for months, are convinced of his ability to thrive under pressure and blossom into a world-class attacking midfielder.
Amorim is keen on players who can thrive in his high-intensity 3-4-3 system, and the River Plate star’s versatility—able to play centrally or wide—makes him a perfect tactical fit. United see him as a long-term asset with high resale value amid financial pressure following their Champions League snub.
But the race is heating up: Arsenal are also circling, and River Plate’s reputation for tough negotiation could drag the deal. With the transfer window opening in staggered phases from June 1, United aim to strike early and avoid a bidding war.
This move is more than a transfer—it’s a declaration. United are not retreating after European disappointment—they’re preparing for resurgence.
