Roland Cutinho
Manchester United starlet Hannibal Mejbri could be handed more minutes under Erik ten Hag this season
According to the Sun, Manchester United have no intention of allowing talented midfielder Hannibal Mejbri to leave the club on a permanent basis in the closing weeks of the transfer window.
It is said that they have rejected several bids from potential suitors as they want to keep him at Old Trafford.
The 20-year-old had a loan stint with Championship team Birmingham during the past season, which has garnered significant attention during the summer transfer period.
Borussia Dortmund were among the clubs expressing interest in a possible €15 million transfer deal, with other teams from England also considering both permanent transfers and loan arrangements.
It is also said that the African star is a target for Premier League newcomers Luton, although discussions are still in progress regarding a potential temporary departure this month.
United had a strategic approach from the beginning, intending to allow the youngster to showcase his abilities during the pre-season matches before finalising any decisions about his future. Hannibal managed to win hearts due to his impressive on-field performance.
Manager Erik ten Hag could hand more chances to the midfielder in the upcoming season. Although uncertainties persist about his position in the team and the extent of his participation in the starting XI.
Having played 41 matches during his tenure with Birmingham in the previous season, Hannibal has enough loan experience under his belt.
However, it’s essential for his career progression that he secure regular playing time in the upcoming season, as a lack of it would seem like a downfall.
United’s intention is to retain him and not sell him on a permanent basis in this summer transfer window.
Nevertheless, there remains the possibility of them approving a loan arrangement before the deadline, provided a suitable offer is presented.
For the young player’s progress, it’s beneficial for all parties involved that he obtain consistent playing opportunities.
Hannibal displayed his talents during the latter part of United’s recent pre-season fixture against Athletic Bilbao and also participated in the U21s’ victory against Chester in a friendly on Monday.
Since his debut against Wolves on the concluding day of the 2020-21 season, the young talent has featured in three competitive matches for Man United’s first team.
With the anticipated departure of Donny van de Beek and Amad Diallo’s prolonged absence due to injury, the Red Devils are in need of a playmaker who can share the creative burden with Bruno Fernandes.
While options like Mason Mount and Christian Eriksen are available, Ten Hag might decide to retain Hannibal as an additional choice. During the pre-season matches, the youngster has showcased a blend of precise passing and effective pressing.
Should he secure a place on the first team, there’s potential for the midfield star to make valuable contributions throughout the season.
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Opting for a Premier League loan could also serve as a more attractive plan for his growth.
In this situation, the Dutch boss needs to carefully consider the options, placing significant importance on determining what aligns best with the player and the club’s interests.
