Manchester United have been linked with just about every winger in Europe this summer, and now you can add Jonathan Rowe to the list. According to a report from Italian outlet Corriere di Bologna, the Red Devils have identified the 23-year-old English winger as a potential addition to Michael Carrick’s attacking corps.
Rowe spent last season at Bologna, where he put up solid numbers: eight goals and five assists in 44 appearances across all competitions. Not flashy, but consistent. He played mostly on the left flank, which is interesting because United already have a few guys who like that spot. But Rowe can also play on the right or as an attacking midfielder, so there’s some flexibility there.
The guy can dribble. He’s got quick feet and a willingness to take on defenders one-on-one. He also has a decent shot from range and can pick out a pass in the final third. Those are the kinds of traits that make scouts sit up and pay attention. But here’s the thing — Serie A is not the Premier League. The pace, the physicality, the constant pressure on the ball? It’s a different animal. Some players make the jump smoothly. Others don’t.
Contract situation makes this tricky
Rowe’s deal at Bologna runs through the summer of 2029. That means the Italian club is under no pressure to sell, and they can demand a pretty hefty fee if United come calling. Forget any cut-price deals. If the Red Devils want him, they’re going to have to pay market value, maybe more.
Bologna bought Rowe from Norwich City last summer for a reported fee around 10 million euros. Now they’re looking at potentially tripling that investment. That’s just how the market works when you’ve got a young English player performing well in a top European league.
Does Carrick need another winger?
That’s the real question. United have Marcus Rashford, Antony, Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho’s situation is still weird, and there’s the Amad Diallo variable. Adding Rowe means someone’s minutes get squeezed. On the other hand, United played something like 55 games last season across all competitions. Depth matters. And Rowe at 23 still has room to grow.
It’s not a slam dunk. But it’s also not a reach. Rowe has shown he can produce in a competitive league. Whether he can handle the jump to England’s top flight is the million-dollar question. Carrick and his staff would have to feel confident about that transition before they write the check.
For now, it’s just a rumor. But it’s one worth watching as the window moves along.
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