Manchester United could miss out on a cost-effective January transfer opportunity for defender Marcos Senesi, with internal turmoil following the sacking of manager Ruben Amorim pushing the potential deal down their list of priorities.
Senesi's Contract Standoff and United's Initial Interest
Marcos Senesi has informed Bournemouth he will not sign a new contract, meaning the Argentine centre-back will be available on a free transfer this summer. The 28-year-old, who has made 88 Premier League appearances for the Cherries since joining from Feyenoord in 2022, has attracted significant interest.
According to reports, Manchester United made contact with Senesi's representatives in December 2025, seeing him as a valuable and affordable defensive reinforcement. His proven top-flight experience and impending free-agent status made him an attractive prospect for the Old Trafford hierarchy.
Managerial Vacuum Derails Transfer Plans
However, United's plans have been thrown into disarray following the dismissal of head coach Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese manager was let go on Monday, January 5th, 2026, after a 1-1 draw with Leeds United.
With Darren Fletcher currently in interim charge and the club considering a caretaker appointment like Ole Gunnar Solskjaer or Michael Carrick until the season's end, the focus has shifted entirely to resolving the managerial situation. This internal chaos, coupled with other planned shake-ups at the club, has meant the Senesi pursuit has been placed on the back burner.
European Giants Ready to Pounce
This delay could prove costly, as other European clubs are actively moving for the defender. Italian giants Juventus are scheduled to hold talks with Senesi's camp next week, while Spanish powerhouse Barcelona has also reportedly made contact.
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola publicly expressed a desire to keep the player, stating on December 19th that "there is no doubt I want him to continue here." Despite this, Senesi's decision to leave appears firm, setting up a potential bidding war for his signature this summer—a war Manchester United may now be ill-prepared to win.
The consequence is clear: United's urgent need to stabilise their dugout has opened the door for their rivals to swoop in and secure a proven Premier League defender without paying a transfer fee, representing a significant potential missed opportunity for the Red Devils.
