United close in on £75m Nmecha as teenage prospect Orozco arrives in Manchester

Manchester United have made contact with Borussia Dortmund midfielder Felix Nmecha as manager Michael Carrick pushes to strengthen his squad ahead of a Champions League campaign, with the 25-year-old’s £75.5 million buyout clause not deterring the club’s interest.

According to Sky Germany, United are trying to beat “increasing competition” for Nmecha and have not been put off by the four years remaining on his Dortmund contract. Newcastle United are also reported to be keen on the Germany international but are said to be seeking a reduction in the asking price, potentially opening the door for United to move ahead in the race. Nmecha, the younger brother of Leeds United forward Lukas, is understood to be open to a Premier League move.

For now, Nmecha’s focus remains on the World Cup with Germany, where he has drawn widespread praise for his performances during the pre-tournament fixtures in North America.

On the incoming front, Colombian teenager Cristian Orozco has arrived in Manchester this weekend to begin his acclimatisation ahead of officially joining the club. United agreed a deal to sign the Fortaleza CEIF prospect last September, but must wait until July 13 — his 18th birthday — to formally register him. He travelled to Manchester accompanied by chief scout Giuseppe Antonaccio and will undergo his medical during the visit.

Orozco, whose playing style has drawn comparisons to Chelsea’s Moises Caicedo, is expected to slot into United’s under-21 squad initially. However, first-team involvement is not ruled out entirely, with Carrick likely to rotate heavily in cup competitions given the demands of a Champions League schedule.

Brazilian midfielder Ederson is also set to join from Atalanta as United look to address the void left by Casemiro’s departure. The club are additionally competing with Tottenham for West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes, while a move for Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali has been mooted — though fellow target Elliot Anderson has already agreed to join Manchester City.

In terms of outgoings, goalkeeper Andre Onana appears set to extend his loan spell at Trabzonspor, with the Turkish club covering his wages and paying a loan fee to keep him for a further period.