Manchester United has reportedly submitted a formal €35 million (£29m / R$ 191m) offer to Atlético Madrid for versatile star Marcos Llorente. The move comes as the Red Devils look for experienced reinforcements to stabilize a squad still reeling from a turbulent season start.
According to reports from Fichajes, the proposal is already on the table at the Metropolitano. While Llorente is now 30 years old, his legendary status as a “Liverpool killer” has made him an intriguing target for a United side desperate to add tactical flexibility and winning mentality to their ranks.
The ‘Anfield Specialist’
Marcos Llorente earned his reputation in England through his extraordinary record against United’s arch-rivals, Liverpool. Out of his eight Champions League goals for Atlético, four were scored at Anfield—including the famous brace that eliminated the Reds in 2020 and a more recent strike during the 2025/26 campaign.
For United fans, the prospect of signing a player who consistently thrives under the pressure of the Anfield atmosphere is a major talking point.
Tactical Versatility: Midfielder or Right-Back?
A key driver behind United’s interest is Llorente’s incredible versatility. Under Diego Simeone this season, he has primarily operated as a right-back, but he remains one of Europe’s most effective box-to-box midfielders.
The Need: With United acknowledging deep structural issues in their midfield and a lack of depth on the right flank, Llorente is seen as a “Swiss Army knife” who could plug multiple holes.
Fact Check: Does He Fit the INEOS Profile?
Despite the excitement, there are significant reasons for caution regarding this deal:
- The Source: Fichajes has a mixed track record with transfer rumors, often reporting interest that doesn’t materialize into concrete deals.
- Age vs. Strategy: Under Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS, Manchester United has prioritized signing players aged 26 or younger (such as Leny Yoro and Manuel Ugarte). At 30, Llorente would be a stark departure from the club’s new long-term recruitment blueprint.
- Financial Impact: Atlético Madrid is carefully weighing the economic impact of losing a club icon mid-season versus the need to balance their books.
