Barcelona are considering a shock move for Man Utd forward Anthony Elanga

In one of the more surprising rumours on transfer deadline day, it is being reported that Barcelona are considering a move for Manchester United winger Anthony Elanga.

The Catalan giants are said to be in the market for a forward to replace Memphis Depay and the injured Ousmane Dembele, who is set to be out for several weeks after picking up a thigh injury against Girona on Saturday.

La Liga have already confirmed to Barcelona that they have a small amount of salary space to be able to register players this season.

And now, the Spanish club are on the lookout for a late loan deal, according to ESPN, who say Elanga is being considered alongside midfielder Sofyan Amrabat – a player that would give Sergio Busquets competition.

Elanga, who enjoyed a decent run in United's first-team under interim boss Ralf Rangnick, has struggled for first-team minutes under Erik ten Hag.

He has made 20 appearances for the Premier League outfit this season, but only seven of those outings have come as a starter.

The 20-year-old Sweden international hasn't scored in all competitions and he 'could' be allowed to leave Old Trafford in the coming hours, say ESPN.

Everton, PSV Eindhoven and Borussia Dortmund have also been linked with a move for Elanga in recent weeks. in fact, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano says United have received 10 proposals to sign the player.

United, meanwhile, are hardly stocked when it comes to attacking options, so whether Elanga will be allowed to leave is another question.

It was confirmed on Tuesday that Facundo Pellistri, a player who has also been heavily linked with a loan move this month, will stay at Old Trafford.

The Uruguayan was close to joining Championship side Watford after positive talks last week, according to The Telegraph, but Ten Hag had a change of heart.

Jadon Sancho's return will also be a big boost for United ahead of a busy February schedule.

Thoughts on Elanga being linked with a move to Barcelona? Do you think United should let him leave considering their squad depth?

Let us know in the comments.

Featured Image Credit: Instagram/anthonyelanga - Alamy

Topics: Manchester United, Manchester United Transfer News & Rumours, Transfers, Anthony Elanga, Barcelona, Premier League, La Liga

Jack Kenmare

Senior Journalist at SPORTbible with a passion for long-form journalism. Almost 10 years’ experience across online and print.

@jackkenmare_