‘Talks collapsed’: The Athletic throw major spanner in the works of expected Man United deal this afternoon

Tyrell Malacia will not be completing his expected move to Elche.

According to The Athletic, ‘ talks have collapsed ’ between Manchester United and the La Liga outfit, as they were unable to reach an agreement over what kind of clause would be included to make his transfer permanent upon the culmination of his season-long loan spell.

Malacia had opened the door to the prospect of joining Elche after being assured of the prominent role he’d play and the game time he’d be granted. Now, though, it looks as though he will still be at Old Trafford beyond the 7pm deadline.

– Monday, 1 September 2025

Malacia was utilised sparingly by Ruben Amorim. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

That’s not to say he’ll be staying with United, however.

The Saudi Pro League window does not close until Wednesday, September 10, and an unnamed side from the division had previously shown interest in Malacia, as per Dutch outlet Voetbal International .

One thing’s for sure: Malacia won’t be reintegrated in Ruben Amorim’s setup when club action resumes after the international break.

Despite featuring eight times under Amorim since ending his 18-month wait to return to action, it became clear early on that the coach had no desire to keep the left-back long-term – hence shipping him out on loan to PSV Eindhoven in the winter.

Malacia spent half the season trying to reignite the best version of himself surrounded by some familiar comforts in his native Netherlands and, even though he finished 2024/2025 with an Eredivisie winners’ medal to his name, PSV opted against signing him permanently at the end of the term.

As a result, he reported back to Carrington with the rest of the outcast contingent at the start of pre-season and faces a race against time to secure a European move.