Man Utd PUSH for Amrabat transfer after reopening talks for Ten Hag's top target
Suraj Radia
- 30 Aug 2023 14:16 BST
- 3 min read
Manchester United will push for Sofyan Amrabat before Friday’s transfer deadline after weeks of deliberation, although any move would likely have to be a loan deal.
Amrabat has been Erik ten Hag’s top target in midfield all window but United’s outlay of more than €190 million this summer had left the club unable to meet Fiorentina’s demands for the Moroccan.
A deal looked to be in jeopardy as United scouted more affordable targets but Fiorentina have been willing to ease their asking price and consider loan options, which has led talks to be reopened.
THE KEY: Why United midfielder could be essential in Amrabat transfer
Amrabat is into the final year of his contract at Fiorentina, and while there is believed to be an option for a further year, the Italians are looking to cash in, with the player having been holding out for a move to a major European side since his standout performances for Morocco at the 2022 World Cup.
United are hoping for a loan deal in order to ease their concerns over financial fair play, which has so far prevented them from a deal despite Fiorentina reportedly lowering their asking price from €30 million to €25m.
Ryan Gravenberch of Bayern Munich is another name being considered by United but Amrabat has always been the first choice of Ten Hag and there is optimism a deal can be struck after returning to the table.
United’s difficult transfer window so far
United have struggled to add to their squad since signing Rasmus Hojlund at the start of August, with the €75m signing joining Andre Onana and Mason Mount as the new arrivals to Old Trafford.
Along with a midfielder, Ten Hag has also been desperate to sign a defender but the failure to sell Harry Maguire to West Ham has prevented any further incomings.
United have raised just over €30m from sales this summer – significantly less than they had anticipated – meaning the pursuit of a defender and a forward has been put on hold.
MAN UTD TRANSFER NEWS: The latest gossip from Old Trafford ahead of deadline day
Altay Bayindir will arrive from Fenerbahce as a replacement for Dean Henderson, who is set to join Crystal Palace, while Donny van de Beek and Eric Bailly are still expected to leave before the end of the month.
