Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag could be forced to miss out on his top remaining summer target. Sofyan Amrabat has piqued the interest of Atletico Madrid, and the Fiorentina midfielder’s reported preference could leave United scouring the market for alternative options.
The race for Amrabat is heating up with just over three weeks remaining until the transfer deadline. Last month, United were rumoured to have practically sewn up the deal, although a period of inactivity has opened the door for rival suitors.
Juventus will reportedly offer Amrabat an avenue to stay in Serie A, while Sport claim that Atletico have also thrown their hats into the ring. Concerningly for United, the 26-year-old is thought to be dead set on working with Rojiblancos boss Diego Simeone.
The report adds that Amrabat has communicated his approval to Atletico, although only time will tell whether the Spanish giants are prepared to meet Fiorentina’s asking price.
Various reports indicate that an offer of £26million would be enough to get the deal done, but others suggest that Fiorentina are holding out for £34m. Barcelona also have a long-standing interest in Amrabat.
Liverpool are believed to have approached the player earlier this summer but they were turned away as, at the time, Amrabat ‘only wanted United’. It remains to be seen whether the Red Devils are jolted into action by the news of Atletico’s advances.
Amrabat occupies the top of Ten Hag’s midfield wish list, while the Red Devils are reportedly keen on Jean-Clair Todibo to beef up their back-line – but only if Harry Maguire leaves the club.
West Ham lodged a £30m bid for the England international this week. Maguire’s standing among United fans hit another rough patch on Sunday following a costly error against Athletic Bilbao in pre-season.