Why Rabiot says he was LUCKY to reject Man Utd transfer

Suraj Radia

• 17 Nov 2022 15:29 GMT
• 2 min read

Adrien Rabiot has insisted he has no regrets over turning Manchester United down in the summer and believes he was ‘lucky’ to end up staying at Juventus.

United had agreed a fee with Juventus to sign the Frenchman but he failed to agree personal terms with Erik ten Hag’s side and opted to remain in Italy.

Rabiot has been in fine form this season, netting three goals in 11 games, but he has yet to agree an extension to his contract at Juventus, which is set to expire in the summer.

WHOOPS: Why Man Utd will be kicking themselves for missing out on Rabiot

“It’s true, there were contacts with Premier League clubs, but in the end, I was lucky to stay, perhaps it was the best decision,” Rabiot told Gazetta Dello Sport.

“The Premier League is the most followed league, but I don’t think about the future. I am focused on the World Cup. The club and I are in no hurry, there’s serenity so we can consider all options.”

Rabiot has played a key role for Juventus in the absence of Paul Pogba and he will also deputise for his injured teammate for France at the World Cup.

United still eyeing Rabiot to bolster midfield

United are still rumoured to be interested in Rabiot and could pursue a cut-price deal for the 27-year-old in January, with Chelsea also believed to be monitoring the situation.

SWOOP: Chelsea linked with January move for Rabiot

Ten Hag ended up bringing in Real Madrid’s Casemiro following the breakdown in talks with Rabiot but the United boss is still understood to be keen on adding to his midfield.

Frenkie de Jong is still on Ten Hag’s radar despite also rejecting a move to Old Trafford in the summer, however a mid-season deal may prove difficult with United set to face Barcelona in the Europa League knockout stage.

Much of United’s January plans could be centered around Cristiano Ronaldo, with the Portuguese star all but destined to leave after the controversy surrounding his recent interview.

United may look to terminate Ronaldo’s contract if no clubs make a move for the 37-year-old and the relief of getting his wages off the books could pave the way for new additions.