Man Utd Transfer News Today: Final Ian Maatsen decision as surprise deal close

31 Aug 2026 20:58 BST | 4 min read

Tom Weber | Writer

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All the latest Man Utd transfer news in one place, including updates on Ian Maatsen, Joshua Zirkzee and Alejandro Balde.

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Maatsen not available

Aston Villa have ruled out a late-window exit of left-back Ian Maatsen, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Netherlands international was the subject of an enquiry from Man Utd earlier this week, with the Red Devils scrambling to add a left-back before the deadline. However, Villa have made it clear that they do not wish to discuss a move.

The Birmingham club consider Maatsen "untouchable" and will not entertain a departure. Romano previously reported that Man Utd are likely to bring in a stopgap at left-back rather than a big-money signing.

Zirkzee likely to stay?

Joshua Zirkzee looks increasingly likely to stay at Man Utd after developments at Newcastle.

According to The Athletic, the Magpies have agreed a €60 million deal to sign Lille forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo. This, in turn, is likely to mean that Nick Woltemade will be allowed to leave the club on loan.

Juventus are currently the German's most likely destination, with some reports claiming that a deal is close, which would have major ramifications for Man Utd because the Bianconeri have also held talks over a deal for Zirkzee. They will only sign one of the two.

Balde too expensive

Fabrizio Romano has reiterated that Man Utd consider Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde too expensive.

The Red Devils have held several discussions with the Spain international's agent Jorge Mendes and have come to the conclusion that a deal is not feasible this summer. Barcelona want to sell, while Man Utd would prefer a loan.

"Man Utd believe the deal is too expensive," Romano said before adding: "Mendes told Man Utd that Barcelona want a permanent transfer or nothing. The player is also keen on staying at Barcelona."

Fernandes talks

Man Utd have held "preliminary talks" with captain Bruno Fernandes over a new contract, as per the Daily Mail.

The Portugal international's current terms expire next season, but Man Utd have the option to extend it by a further season. It was previously believed that they wanted to sort a new deal this summer, but that idea was eventually shelved.

Nevertheless, they remain determined to keep their captain long-term and want to agree a new contract with him before the end of the year. There has been interest from Saudi Arabia and Serie A, but Man Utd will not entertain a sale in the final hours of the window.