New PSV Eindhoven manager and former Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy is hoping for a quick resolution on Ibrahim Sangare’s future.
Sangare was linked with Manchester United, with Sky Sports claiming the Red Devils are ‘interested’ in the Ivory Coast ace. The Mail also reported United’s interest.
Opta named Sangare in their Eredivisie team of the season, labelling him the ‘best defensive midfielder’ in the league.
Sangare ranked 1st in the league for tackles won, 1st for duels won, 2nd for ball recoveries, and 3rd for interceptions.
Sangare could leave
Van Nistelrooy wants the 24-year-old to stay at PSV, but admits Sangare could leave. Voetbal Primeur report PSV have replacements lined up if needed, and the former United boss just wants clarity, ahead of his first season as manager.
He told Voetbal International: “I would prefer to know as soon as possible whether they [Sangare and Gakpo] are staying. The sooner the better, but we are dealing with the transfer deadline.
“I know from Sangare that he really wants to stay, PSV is absolutely no punishment for him. But of course we also know how the market works. If clubs come with the right financial resources, it could be difficult to keep these players.”
While Van Nistelrooy says Sangare wants to stay, Sky report he has his heart set on a move to the Premier League. It’s smart of him to keep his options open.
Sangare has a release clause of 35 million Euros (£29.9 million), so a club could come in and swoop for the defensive midfielder at any time.
Keep Manchester United in the frame
Manchester United’s top priority is Frenkie de Jong. But he may only be half the midfield conundrum.
If Erik ten Hag wants a more orthodox defensive midfielder alongside him, Sangare could be a great addition, at a very affordable price. The pair of them could cost £100 million together, which is not unreasonable. Especially if Christian Eriksen is also added for depth on a free.
It is also possible that Sangare is one of Manchester United’s options if the Frenkie de Jong deal all falls through.
If negotiations are not getting anywhere, at some stage there will have to be a cut-off where United walk away and consider other targets.
Sangare is a credible one, with a fixed price tag, who Ten Hag knows from the Eredivisie. As part of the midfield jigsaw with or without De Jong, he would be a sensible addition for United.