Manchester United and Chelsea are reportedly out of the running to sign Barcelona attacker Ousmane Dembele.
The 25-year-old has recently returned from representing France in the 2022 World Cup, where he helped his team reach the final by producing two assists in seven appearances.
However, Dembele underperformed in the first half of the final against Argentina, prompting France coach Didier Deschamps to pull him just before halftime.
The attacker will return to Barcelona after a short holiday to prepare for the return of competitive club play. He has been a key player for Xavi’s side this season, scoring five goals and contributing seven assists in 20 games across all competitions.
Dembele’s term at Camp Nou expires in June 2024, though he signed a two-year agreement last summer after initially departing on a free transfer.
Man United and Chelsea were among the clubs connected with the attacker last summer, when it looked like he might be looking for greener pastures.
According to El Nacional, the two teams have officially discontinued their interest in signing him.
According to the report, Red Devils manager Erik ten Hag regarded Dembele as a likely replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo, whose contract was terminated at the end of November.
See Also: Man United Launch £52.5m Bid For Antoine Griezmann
However, Manchester United are ‘now considering possible options,’ with Atletico Madrid’s Antoine Griezmann thought to be a top target for the 20-time English champions.
According to a recent report, Ten Hag’s squad is preparing a bid for Griezmann in the hopes of getting him to Old Trafford during the January transfer window.
Chelsea, however, are said to have ‘taken Dembele’s name off their agenda,’ with the Blues instead planning to sign a centre-forward in January.
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