George Baker
Barcelona interested in Manchester United star Donny van de Beek
According to transfer news from Mundo Deportivo (h/t IB Times), Barcelona are willing to offer Samuel Umtiti in a swap deal for Manchester United star Donny van de Beek. Due to their tight finances, the Catalans want a loan deal for Van de Beek. Alternatively, Samuel Umtiti will be offered to United.
The former Ajax prodigy was United’s only big money signing last summer and arrived at Old Trafford after a successful spell at his former club. Hopes were high as his performances for Ajax pointed to a successful stint at United. However, an opening day goal in the Premier League would turn out to be the highlight of his first season at United.
Van de Beek was often seen warming the benches in most games and only in a handful of games was he given the nod by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Overall, he made 36 appearances all season, of which 21 came off the bench (h/t Transfermarkt). That has seen speculation over his future arise in recent weeks.
Barcelona propose swap deal for Van de Beek-Umtiti
Barcelona are now said to be after the Dutch midfielder but only on loan (h/t IB Times). There will also be the added factor of allowing Umtiti to go to United on loan as well to manage their finances and not overspend. United are somewhat keen to offload Van de Beek while Barcelona want to do the same with Umtiti.
Umtiti featured prominently during his first couple of seasons at Camp Nou, playing a key role in the Catalan giants’ triumphant 2017-18 La Liga campaign. However, he has had a torrid time with injuries over the past 2-3 seasons, having spent more time on the treatment table than on the pitch.
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Van de Beek has his best years ahead of him and to let him leave after just one season would be a mistake. United should be wary of this swap deal though. Umtiti is an injury-prone player despite his quality. The club would be better off keeping Van de Beek and integrating him into the side.
