Manchester United's Facundo Pellistri joins Granada on loan for rest of season

There has been a host of speculation surrounding the Uruguay international's future in recent weeks, with a number of clubs believed to have expressed an interest in securing his services on a short-term basis.

Anthony Martial's groin operation led to claims that Pellistri would have to remain at Old Trafford as cover, with the Red Devils lacking numbers in the final third of the field.

However, the 20-time English champions have ultimately agreed to let the 22-year-old move on, and he will spend the second half of the season with Granada.

Pellistri has previous experience of operating in Spain's top flight, having turned out for Alaves during two separate loan spells, making 33 appearances in La Liga.

"Manchester United winger Facundo Pellistri has joined Granada on loan for the remainder of the 2023/24 season," read a statement from the 20-time English champions.

"The Uruguay international will ply his trade in La Liga after securing a switch to Nuevo Estadio de Los Carmenes."

Pellistri has made 14 appearances for Man United during the 2023-24 campaign, including nine outings in the Premier League, providing one assist.

The forward arrived at Old Trafford from Penarol in 2020, and he has represented the Red Devils on 24 occasions, providing two assists in the process.

As it stands, Pellistri will return to Man United this summer, with the South American having a contract at Old Trafford until June 2025.

However, the forward's agent has suggested that Pellistri could leave on a permanent basis this summer if Erik ten Hag remains in charge.

Edgardo Lasalvia told Sport 890: "Whether he returns to Manchester in the middle of the year will depend on the performance he shows.

"If Ten Hag continues, it's going to be difficult. Ten Hag hasn't used him, valued him, or treated him like a professional."

Pellistri could make his debut for Granada, who are 19th in the La Liga table, against Las Palmas on Saturday afternoon.