Manchester United reluctant to let youngster Zidane Iqbal leave on loan in January transfer window
Manchester United are reluctant to let youngster Zidane Iqbal leave the club on loan in the upcoming transfer window, according to Manchester Evening News.
The Red Devils are pondering whether to let the Iraq international leave in January on a temporary deal. However, the Old Trafford side are concerned about the lack of depth in the middle of the park.
United staff feel it will be best for the 19-year-old to train with the first team for the rest of the campaign. Then next summer, the club could look to send the midfielder out on a season-long loan.
Iqbal made his debut for the Red Devils in December last year. The youngster came on for the final minutes of a Champions League group stage fixture against BSC Young Boys that ended in a draw.
The midfielder has not featured for the first team again since then. However, during pre-season, the 19-year-old showed glimpses of his talent in friendlies against the likes of Liverpool.
Charlie Savage was another prospect who put on a show alongside the Iraqi national. However, while they managed to grab the attention of many fans, Erik ten Hag does not seem to trust them just yet.
For the majority of the current campaign, United’s midfield has been dominated by Casemiro, Christian Eriksen and Bruno Fernandes. The three of them have performed well.
On the other hand, Fred and Scott McTominay have also had decent spells in the team under the Dutch manager. However, Donny van de Beek has struggled to stay fit and has been underwhelming when given a chance.
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Considering how congested this season has been so far, it was wise for the club to keep a hold of Iqbal. However, unless Ten Hag is going to give the 19-year-old some game time, it would be best for him to find first-team action elsewhere.
