Brentford midfielder Frank Onyeka has openly expressed his ambition to one day play for Manchester United, making the admission while representing Nigeria at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Midfielder's Red Devils admission in Morocco
The 28-year-old, who is currently in the semi-finals of AFCON with Nigeria, was asked by a fan in host nation Morocco if he fancied a future switch to Old Trafford. Onyeka opted for a straightforward answer, replying: ‘Of course I want to play for Manchester United!’
His immediate focus, however, remains on international duty. Nigeria face Morocco on Wednesday night for a place in the final, with Senegal versus Egypt completing the last-four line-up. The tournament final is scheduled for Sunday, January 18 in Rabat.
United's search for midfield reinforcements
Despite Onyeka's public declaration, a move to Manchester United appears highly unlikely. The Nigerian international joined Brentford from FC Midtjylland in 2021 and has made 87 appearances for the Bees across all competitions.
After falling out of favour under manager Thomas Frank and spending last season on loan at FC Augsburg in Germany, Onyeka has returned to make nine appearances this campaign under Keith Andrews.
Manchester United are actively seeking a new midfielder and are expected to make a summer move, but Onyeka is not considered a probable target. The club's interest has been centred on other names.
Brighton's Baleba remains a primary target
The Red Devils were strongly linked with a move for Brighton & Hove Albion's Carlos Baleba during the summer window. The 22-year-old Cameroon international remains a key target, although Brighton are reported to value him at around £100 million.
Baleba himself admitted that the speculation linking him to United added pressure at the start of the season. Brighton chairman Tony Bloom later clarified the situation, stating: ‘There was interest from Manchester United, and we said that he wasn’t available this summer and they went away.’
United are also monitoring other potential options for the engine room. Newcastle United's Elliot Anderson and Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton have been touted as possible summer signings.
In a more immediate and affordable move, Ruben Neves of Al-Hilal could be an option in the current January window, with the Portuguese midfielder believed to be available for a fee in the region of £20 million.
