Man Utd used as 'negotiation tactic' in striker deal

Cameron Smith
Cameron Smith
  • 31 Oct 2025 12:16 GMT
  • 6 min read
Ruben Amorim, Man Utd
© IMAGO

Manchester United have reportedly been used as a “negotiation tactic” following rumours they are locked in talks to sign AIK striker Kevin Filling.

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Filling, 16, has emerged as one of the most talented young strikers in European football over the past few months and he has already scored three goals in 10 first-team appearances for AIK so far this season.

Earlier this week, Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg revealed that Man Utd are in “concrete negotiations” to land the teenager in 2026, with a price of €3 million being touted as enough to finalise a deal.

However, Manchester World have now disputed these claims. In fact, they believe Ruben Amorim’s side are being used as a “negotiation tactic.”

It’s reported that rumours of Man Utd’s eagerness to acquire his signature are inaccurate and may lead to Filling earning an improved contract at AIK or help to generate increased transfer interest from other clubs across Europe.

However, a move to Old Trafford is unlikely to take place, especially as Filling is unable to join the Red Devils until he turns 18 years old due to Brexit rules.

Man Utd’s January transfer plans

Although Man Utd aren’t currently in talks to sign Filling, they could still be set for a busy January transfer window.

Napoli are eager to finalise a permanent transfer for Rasmus Hojlund after signing him on an initial loan deal, while Joshua Zirkzee and Kobbie Mainoo are both pushing to leave Old Trafford amid their lack of game time so far this season.

Despite this, it’s understood they are likely to remain at the club, with Amorim unwilling to sanction departures due to the likelihood that Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will be out of action for several weeks if they compete at the Africa Cup of Nations.

In regards to possible incomings, Man Utd remain interested in signing a new central midfielder in January and they have identified several key targets, including Elliot Anderson, Carlos Baleba and Adam Wharton.

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Read more about: Premier League AIK Solna Man Utd

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