Romano revelation makes future clear for Man Utd's forgotten star

Tom Weber

• Updated: 20 May 2023 15:06 BST
• 3 min read

Fabrizio Romano's latest update on Manchester United will give encouragement to fans - and discomfort to some players, including midfielder Donny van de Beek.

That Erik ten Hag will strengthen his Red Devils squad in hopes of launching a proper title bid next season is common knowledge at this point. What wasn't particularly clear until now was which positions he would definitely target and which were merely an added bonus, budget permitting.

New information shared by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano gives us a clearer idea of United's priorities. Bringing in a proper, world-class striker remains top of the agenda, but the search for a new midfielder has been given increased emphasis, according to the Italian.

READ: Romano drops major Man Utd transfer hint as France star nears deal

This means that even if United retain on-loan star Marcel Sabitzer beyond this season - as indeed they would like to - they will look to the market to bring in another midfielder in addition to the Bayern star. This spells bad news for the likes of Fred, Scott McTominay and, crucially, Donny van de Beek.

The Dutchman's fall from grace

The midfielder is currently dealing with a long-term knee injury sustained early in the year, and it could well be that he has already played his last game for the Red Devils.

Out of favour before Ten Hag's arrival and unable to stay fit this term - which has seen him make just ten appearances across all competitions - it might be the best-case scenario for both parties to go different ways in the summer.

READ: Erik ten Hag is told a clear 'no' in the battle for De Jong alternative

Romano's transfer revelation makes it clear that United are ready to move on from their midfield deadwood, and while it would be harsh to classify the Dutchman as disposable, he has failed to prove that he can recapture the form he showed under Ten Hag at Ajax at his new stomping ground of Old Trafford.

With a new midfielder planned to join - rumoured to be Juventus star Adrien Rabiot - Van de Beek could remain a mere peripheral figure. At 26 years of age, he would be wasting his career if he were to accept this role and stay with United.