Man Utd close to agreeing a sale that could fund Carlos Baleba move, says Fabrizio Romano

This transfer saga has dragged on longer than expected, largely because Garnacho had his sights set solely on Chelsea, while the Blues viewed him as more of a late-market punt than a priority signing.

But it appears that the Argentine winger’s persistence is paying off, with Fabrizio Romano reporting that the move is now in its final stages.

While personal terms have been settled for some time, the two clubs are still working to find common ground on the transfer fee.

From United’s perspective, Garnacho agreeing to terms does not move the needle much if they cannot get a fair deal from Chelsea.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano said: “Chelsea and Man Utd are now in active talks to reach an agreement for Alejandro Garnacho. The contract for the player is done 100% already. Chelsea will accelerate now. Garnacho will become a Chelsea player in the summer transfer window. We’re entering the final stages. Garnacho, Chelsea player, very soon.”

Garnacho’s departure could end up helping United

Man Utd supporters have every right to be frustrated if Garnacho’s fee lands anywhere close to the £40m figure being mentioned.

Look at Chelsea’s own Noni Madueke, for example. He cost nearly £55m, despite being older and having less experience in the Premier League than Garnacho.

The situations are not identical, though. Garnacho has completely fallen out with United, but that should only strengthen the club’s resolve to get proper value.

The club needs to make it clear that players cannot simply force moves by burning bridges and expect cut-rate deals in return.

Still, even if they only get £40m for him, it could end up being a case of addition by subtraction, as there are clear benefits for United beyond just the money.

For one, any fee received would be recorded as pure profit in the accounts, which could help push through a move for Carlos Baleba this summer rather than waiting another year.

But perhaps more important is what his exit would mean for team morale. Getting him out of the dressing room could lift a weight off a squad trying to turn the page and start fresh under a new regime.