Man Utd might be able to sell a player who’s endured a truly torrid time at Old Trafford thanks in large part to Newcastle, according to a report.
ESPN recently reported Man Utd’s summer transfer budget is restricted as a direct consequence of mistakes made in the previous regime.
Indeed, making David de Gea the highest paid goalkeeper in the world on £375,000-a-week and forking out £73m for Jadon Sancho despite a lack of rival interest were key examples cited.
The Ed Woodward era also saw £40m (£35m plus £5m in add-ons) paid to Ajax for the services of Donny van de Beek.
However, the Dutchman’s natural position is as a central attacking midfielder and that role at Old Trafford belongs to Bruno Fernandes.
As such, and combined with a spate of injuries and poor form when afforded rare chances, Van de Beek has racked up just 60 appearances in three years.
Just two goals and two assists have been notched in that time, while a brief loan spell at Everton saw Van de Beek fare no better.
Not even the arrival of Erik ten Hag who managed Van de Beek at Ajax has reversed his fortunes. As such, Fabrizio Romano claimed in late-June Van de Beek is exploring his options in the market this summer.
Man Utd would dearly love to sell and put whatever fee they receive towards new signings. According to a remarkable report from Spain, Man Utd have found a buyer in the form of AC Milan.
Tonali to Newcastle tees up shock Van de Beek swoop
The Serie A giant have money to burn after Newcastle agreed a deal to sign Sandro Tonali for €70m (approx. £60m).
Milan have since secured the signing of Chelsea’s Ruben Loftus-Cheek for €20m. However, manager Stefano Pioli wants one more midfield arrival and has Van de Beek in his sights.
That’s via the Spanish media (as cited by the Manchester Evening News). The report claims Pioli has ‘approved’ a move for Van de Beek and is the main driver behind the potential move.
Despite being labelled ‘one of the worst signings in the history of Manchester United’, Milan seemingly believe they can get a tune out of Van de Beek.
As such, they’re remarkably prepared to stump up €20m (approx. £17.2m) to get a deal done.
That is less than half the figure paid to Ajax in 2020, though is still a decent return given how badly Van de Beek’s stint in Manchester has unfolded.
