Trent Alexander-Arnold transfer decision 'ruins' Man United dream as wonderkid deal confirmed

Manchester United's entire focus is on the congested fixture list through September and October. After returning from the international break with four games, United are still to face three tough games before the next one.

Erik ten Hag's men welcome Tottenham to Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon before two tough trips to FC Porto in the Europa League and Aston Villa next weekend. If Erik ten Hag was under pressure after Thursday's draw with FC Twente, he will be if results don't go their way before October 7.

To make matters worse, one of United's best players have been linked with a super move to Real Madrid. The transfer window is closed for business for another three months but that hasn't stopped clubs showing interest.

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Here, MEN Sport brings you the latest transfer highlights and opinions from our writers.

Alexander-Arnold decision costs United

United are reportedly in danger of losing Diogo Dalot if Liverpool manage to convince Trent Alexander-Arnold to sign a new contract at the club. Real Madrid are the frontrunners to land the England international but it's said they will turn their attention towards Dalot.

According to GIVEMESPORT, the European champions are poised to consider Dalot if they are unsuccessful in their pursuit of Alexander-Arnold.

Dalot still has four years on his current contract at Old Trafford but the report states there are fears that the 'Real Madrid-pull' could be too good to turn down.

MEN Sport says: "Dalot has established himself as one of Ten Hag's most consistent performers at United. Having become one of the first names on the team sheet, it would be a disaster to see him snapped up by Madrid.

"What will frustrate United and their fans the most is that it could be Alexander-Arnold and Liverpool who nudge the domino effect to ruin the long-term vision of the club. At 25, the versatile full-back is the future of United's defence.

"Nowadays in football, premium, attacking wing-backs are pricey. If United have their hands tied with Dalot, they could face a huge problem."

Approval for transfer

After initially striking a deal in July, 16-year-old Chido Obi-Martin has received the final approval from the Premier League for his move to United. The Manchester Evening News reported on Thursday that ratification of Obi-Martin's move to United was imminent and the deal has now been officially rubber-stamped.

The teenager will be officially unveiled as a United player and is expected to play between the Under-18 and Under-21 sides. He will be gradually eased into his new environment and a source said 'he will need time and patience' following a spell out of the game.

It's also understood United's head of the academy Nick Cox and the head of academy recruitment Luke Fedorenko are responsible for the deal to sign Obi-Martin, who scored 29 goals in 17 league matches for Arsenal's Under-18s last season, over the line.

MEN Sport says: "Last season, I was in attendance to watch Obi-Martin in action for Arsenal against Leicester City Under-18s. Every person I spoke to was in dis-belief of the sheer size of the striker.

"As well as winning every long ball and showing immense strength for such a young age, he showed confidence to create opportunities for himself and his teammates. Now that United have got the deal over the line, I'm excited to see how he will progress at United."