According to a report from the Athletic, Manchester United were hoping to pull off a player-plus-cash deal for Atalanta striker Rasmus Hojlund because of their budget constraints.
However, the Italian club insist on a cash payment for the talented young forward.
This is a major blow for Manchester United in the current transfer window. The Red Devils are believed to have a limited transfer budget this summer due to FFP.
They have already spent £55m to sign Mason Mount from Chelsea and a move for Inter Milan goalkeeper Andre Onana looks to be getting closer to completion.
Whilst both good signings, this is expected to leave Man United with little money to spend on a centre-forward – a position they are very weak in heading into the new season.
So, if Atalanta will not accept any player as part of the deal, then United may be forced to look at other options to fill the massive void they have up top.