Manchester United Rumors: Red Devils Plot Last-Minute Move For Another Sancho 'Plan B'

Apart from Barcelona star Ousmane Dembele, Manchester United could make a last-minute move for Sevilla goal scorer Lucas Ocampos as well, a report said.

The transfer window will officially close on Oct. 5, but United is hoping to land a major signing, with Borussia Dortmund star Jadon Sancho still the club’s priority. ESPN reported, citing unnamed sources, that Barca’s Dembele emerged as a “plan B,” but the Red Devils have also included Sevilla’s Ocampos in the shortlist.

According to the ESPN report, Ocampos became a credible candidate after representatives from United made “extensive checks” on his “skill set, temperament and situation” with the LaLiga side. Unnamed sources told the publication that Sevilla could let Ocampos go if its asking fee of around €40 million ($46 million) is met. International Business Times could not independently verify this information.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side is interested in the 26-year-old Argentina international due to his physical attributes and ability to play multiple roles across the forward line, the report said.

Aside from United, Wolverhampton Wanderers is reportedly keeping an eye on Ocampos as well. Sky Sports reported that the Europa League quarter-final hero is being considered by the Wolves as a potential replacement for Adama Traore.

Last season, Ocampos has netted a total of 17 goals across all competitions for Sevilla and has been one of the club’s most notable players. He has a proven nose for goals and has also represented his home country Argentina in various matches in international leagues where he played alongside six-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi.

Meanwhile, despite devising contingency plans, United is still expected to make a swoop for Sancho in the final days of the window.

ESPN earlier reported, citing unnamed sources, that Solskjaer has suggested the potential £25 million ($32 million) sale of Daniel James in order to raise funds for a last-minute bid for the Dortmund winger. However, United executives are not keen on the Norwegian manager’s proposal to sell the youngster.

According to the report, the club's hierarchy, led by executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward, believes the early departure of James would send the message that United doesn’t have the “ability to develop” young signings.