Man Utd midfielder set for loan move away

Jacque Talbot

• 6 Jan 2024 12:45 CST
• 3 min read

Hannibal Mejbri has decided to embark on a loan spell with Sevilla after failing to forge a place in Erik ten Hag's plans.

The youngster departing from Manchester United to head to Spain and it's reported that the two clubs are currently in the process of negotiating the terms of the loan agreement, with discussions around potential clauses, including an option to buy and a buy-back provision.

Mejbri, who has been part of Manchester United's youth setup, is set to gain valuable experience in Spain's top-flight football with Sevilla. The move represents a strategic step in the player's development, providing him with the opportunity to hone his skills and adapt to the demands of a different footballing environment.

The La Liga outfit currently resides in the 16th position on the league table and is out of European competitions, prompting a strong desire for a more robust performance in the second half of the season. Should their struggles persist, the looming threat of relegation becomes a distinct possibility.

This stands in stark contrast to their previous season's achievement, where they advanced far enough to compete against Manchester United in the Europa League – a feat reminiscent of Sevilla's success in the prior term.

Facing considerable scrutiny is sporting director Víctor Orta, formerly associated with Leeds United, who assumed the role following the departure of the esteemed Monchi.

Hannibal heading to Sevilla

🚨⚪️🔴 Hannibal Mejbri has decided to join Sevilla on loan from Manchester United!

Freiburg and OL asked for him too but Sevilla on it since August and now ready to sign Hannibal.

United and Sevilla will now discuss terms of loan [also potential option and buy back clause]. pic.twitter.com/wSjNxSIqEf

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 6, 2024

Reports from Diario de Sevilla indicate that Orta is actively pursuing reinforcements, with negotiations reportedly underway for a loan deal until the season's conclusion, targeting players such as the Tunisian international Hannibal.

Intriguingly, the report suggests that Hannibal is eager for the move, a sentiment not surprising given the youngster's keen appetite for increased playing time.

The question now lingers on whether Manchester United will authorize a loan departure for the talented midfielder, especially considering his limited playing time this season, amounting to only 300 minutes on the field. The outcome of these negotiations will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of Hannibal's immediate career and impact the La Liga side's pursuit of a stronger second half in the ongoing season.