Pranav Nair
Manchester United have an advantage in Donny van de Beek pursuit
According to Sky Sports, Manchester United have an advantage in their pursuit of Dutch midfielder Donny van de Beek.
United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is keen to bring in a midfield playmaker this summer. The 23-year-old Ajax Amsterdam star is an excellent option given his track record.
Although Aston Villa skipper Jack Grealish remains United’s preferred option, his sizeable asking price could prove to be a hindrance.
Grealish’s situation has seen the club take a look at alternatives. One of them is Van de Beek, who has been scouted by United in the past. In a boost for United, Van de Beek is open to moving to the Premier League instead of La Liga.
Interest in the player is high in Spain, with both Barcelona and Real Madrid keeping tabs. With Ronald Koeman taking over at the Nou Camp, the Catalans have been backed to make a serious move to acquire the Ajax star.
The Dutch international enjoyed a fine season with Ajax, notching up 10 goals and 11 assists. Unfortunately for him, the season was chalked off due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The 23-year-old caught the club’s eye in Ajax’s run to the UEFA Champions League semifinals in 2018. He scored key goals against both Juventus and Tottenham Hotspur, leading his side to within seconds of making the final.
Available for €35million, he is a much cheaper alternative to Grealish as well. Ajax are yet to receive offers for the midfielder. They are however willing to sell provided a satisfactory offer is made.
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Having played regularly in the Champions League, it can be argued that Van de Beek has proven himself at a higher level than Grealish.
Despite the Villa skipper’s pedigree, his asking price is too high for United to be taking a risk. Van de Beek is an excellent player who can offer us just what we want at a cheaper price than Grealish.
