Manchester United have suffered a brutal setback on transfer deadline day.
It was reported earlier today that Man United were pushing to sign Leicester City youngster Louis Page before the transfer window slammed shut.
However, journalist Laurie Whitwell has now revealed that talks between United and Leicester had reached an advanced stage before the deal collapsed at the final hurdle.
The Foxes were demanding £12 million upfront, with the fee potentially rising to £15m, to part ways with the highly-rated midfielder.
The 18-year-old was expected to return to Leicester on loan for the 2026-27 season, but United ultimately ran out of time to get the agreement over the line.
It is another major setback for the Red Devils, who could now finish deadline day without making another signing despite several glaring weaknesses in their squad.
Page would have been the fourth midfield addition for the Red Devils this season, following the arrivals of Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans and Carlos Baleba.
The teenage sensation enjoyed a breakthrough campaign at Leicester during the 2025-26 season.
He played 21 times and showed why he is one of the most highly-rated midfielders in England.
He is a strong ball-carrier and also possesses the ability to play line-breaking passes.
His physical maturity is another major part of his appeal, particularly when compared with other players in his age group.
With just over two hours remaining before the deadline, United now face the very real possibility of ending the summer without making another move.
The need for a left-back remains particularly urgent, yet the club hierarchy appear to have turned their attention away from a glaring weakness.
Head coach Michael Carrick has every reason to be furious after United’s failure to execute their transfer plans when it mattered most.
Stats from Fotmob.com
