Big transfer news broke earlier this evening when Donny van de Beek was left out of Ajax’s friendly match.
De Telegraaf reported this was due to transfer interest, with Manchester United in the race to sign him.
Manager Erik Ten Haag told ZS Voetball: “There are indeed developments that keep him out of the squad.”
ESPN then reported Manchester United were in pole position to sign the Dutch international, with the option of Barcelona ruled out.
There have since been updates from journalists Fabrizio Romano and Simon Stone on social media, claiming United are indeed keen, but stopping short of saying there is an agreement.
The Telegraph also report United are interested in signing the Dutch international – but have yet to make a formal offer.
How close are United to tying this up?
While there does not appear to be an agreement just yet, clearly activity is going on behind the scenes.
Van de Beek has been an option for several months and yet this sudden flurry of activity suggests there is movement.
The Dutchman played in a pre-season game on Tuesday, but not tonight. Ajax would not have had him sat out if they did not think it was close.
United supporters should feel optimistic, that after a month of inaction in the transfer market, the club appear to finally be ready to do business.
With United, you never quite know. This could amount to nothing, and we will all be disappointed – but for now we will choose to be optimistic.
If he does sign, Van de Beek should just be the start, and he would be a fine way to kick off a mini-transfer spree.
The players return to training at Carrington on Tuesday September 2, and United have a chance to get the deal tied up by then so he can join his new teammates.
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