Italian Wonderkid Available for Manchester United as Sir Jim Ratcliffe Approves £12.8m Deal
Simone Pafundi, at the age of 17, recently became the youngest senior international player for his country, the Azzuri, in November 2022. He has been given the opportunity to pursue a move to Old Trafford, following a clever deal by Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Pafundi has joined Swiss Super League side Lausanne on a one-year loan from Udinese, which includes an option to make the transfer permanent for £12.8 million, setting a new record in Switzerland’s top-flight. Lausanne is currently owned by INEOS, the company of United’s new minority shareholder Ratcliffe, and this move may be part of a long-term strategy to bring Pafundi to Old Trafford. Should Pafundi impress at his new club, the move will likely become permanent in 12 months, providing him with additional time to develop before a potential transfer to the Premier League.
Pafundi made his Serie A debut at 16 and received a surprise call-up to the Italian national team from then-manager Roberto Mancini. However, his progress was hindered by injury after playing for his country in the Under-20 World Cup. Often compared to a young Lionel Messi, Pafundi now has the opportunity to showcase his talent in Switzerland. Ratcliffe, who also owns French outfit Nice, recently completed a partial takeover of United in December, acquiring a 25 per cent stake in the club. While the Glazer family will retain control, Ratcliffe, a lifelong fan, is expected to take charge of the club’s day-to-day operations and transfers. However, the new investment he brings won’t be available until later in 2024.
