Leicester owner personally blocks Manchester United's £15m move for Louis Page

Manchester United’s pursuit of Leicester City midfielder Louis Page ended when the Foxes’ owner personally stepped in to block a reported £15m deal before Tuesday’s transfer deadline, Leicester manager Russell Martin confirmed.

The 18-year-old, who was named EFL Championship Apprentice of the Season last term, had emerged as a late target for United, with the club pushing hard in the closing hours of the window. Martin revealed the offer was discussed at the highest level. “The owner was here today, we sat in the office and received a very big offer from Manchester United,” the Leicester boss said. “Myself, Jon [Rudkin], James [McCarron] and the owner, Khun Top, sat in [the office] and he said no.”

Manager Michael Carrick had hinted at his desire for further additions just before the deadline, saying: “You’re always looking for more if you can do something else and make the most of the situation.” United ultimately did no further business after Page’s move fell through.

Despite missing out on Page, Carrick oversaw a significant overhaul of his squad during the summer window. Andrey Santos arrived from Chelsea for £50m, while Youri Tielemans joined for £35m after United activated his Aston Villa release clause. Carlos Baleba was the marquee signing, arriving from Brighton for £70m, and free agent goalkeeper Karl Darlow was also brought in on a no-fee deal. The departures included Casemiro, whose exit prompted the midfield rebuild.

Carrick expressed satisfaction with the overall window despite the late setback. “At the moment, the group’s in a good place, and they want to fight for each other, which is important,” he said. “The business that we’ve managed to do, I’m pleased with. I think we’re a better group, a better squad, potentially a better team.”

United now turn their attention to Sunday’s Premier League fixture against Everton, who have lost their opening game to Hull City 2-0 before beating Ipswich Town 5-2 in their most recent outing.