MANCHESTER UNITED target Donny van de Beek was left out of Ajax’s squad because of transfer interest in the midfielder.
The Dutch side’s manager Erik ten Hag confirmed there were “developments” which meant he left the 23-year-old out of his team to play Eintracht Frankfurt on Saturday afternoon.
Man Utd target Donny van de Beek was left out of Ajax’s squad vs Eintracht Frankfurt because of transfer interest in him
Barcelona and Real Madrid are thought to be ready to rival United for the Dutch star and it now seems certain Van de Beek will leave Ajax this summer.
Speaking ahead of today’s match, Ten Hag said: “There are indeed developments that prevent him from being in the selection.
“We are looking at how that will end.”
Dutch international Van de Beek was close to agreeing a £47million transfer to Real Madrid before lockdown.
And Ajax director – and former Red Devils goalkeeper – Edwin van der Sar confirmed he could leave for the right price earlier this year.
Van de Beek is happy in Holland’s capital and is not fazed by the prospect of staying.
But offers are expected to come from the Premier League – where he would reportedly be happy to play.
United were heavily linked with the Dutchman in the January transfer window.
And despite having since signed Bruno Fernandes and welcomed Paul Pogba back into the fold, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer could still move for the midfield ace.
Especially if Fred is on his way to Galatasaray who are reportedly preparing a loan to buy bid.
Van de Beek has two years left on his contract – which means Ajax can still demand a decent fee.
But it is not expected to be as much as the £47m pre-lockdown amount because of the financial impact of coronavirus on clubs.
Ajax want any deal wrapped up before their Eredivisie campaign kicks off against Sparta Rotterdam on September 13.
Arsenal and Manchester City are both in the market for centre midfielders.
But the Gunners will struggle without the offer of Champions League football.
Asked about his future in January, Van de Beek revealed he was in no hurry to leave the Amsterdam side.
He said: “It is not that I can or want to do something at the moment.
“I have said it before, and I will say it again: I will remain at Ajax this season. And maybe next season as well.
“These reports about Real Madrid or Man Utd are a good sign, but it is not important now.
“I’ve said I will stay at Ajax and I will do so for 100 per cent.”
Jeff Stelling confirms he could quit Soccer Saturday after Sky Sports sacked pals Le Tissier, Nicholas and Thompson
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
