Sofyan Amrabat is expected to join Manchester United this week, with Erik ten Hag following in the footsteps of Casemiro, who arrived at Old Trafford last year.
Manchester United’s pursuit of Fiorentina midfielder Sofyan Amrabat has required patience, but it appears to be paying off.
There are unmistakable parallels to a year ago, when the Red Devils waited until the last days of the transfer window to sign their long-awaited central midfielder. Erik ten Hag landed the sensational signing of Casemiro from Real Madrid, transforming his starting XI.
Amrabat will not have the same notoriety or prominence as the Brazilian star, but his addition to United’s ranks will be warmly appreciated.
The team’s midfield flaws and the necessity for an athletic and positionally aware acquisition have been highlighted in the first three games of the season.
The Moroccan international is desperate to leave Fiorentina, who promised him a summer move in January. He has not appeared in either of the Italian club’s first two Serie A games of the season, as they prepare for his departure.
Ten Hag has been incredibly kind to the player, praising his stamina and determination to prioritize the team over himself, both of which he admires. While it would have been preferable for United to have signed him sooner, as with Casemiro, it will be crucial.
Ten Hag prioritized the additions of Mason Mount, Rasmus Hojlund, and Andre Onana this summer, while Amrabat was also designated early.
United’s pursuit of the player has been hampered by a paucity of player sales, which meant that the budget for the Moroccan was not accessible.
Following the sale of Fred, United are desperate to recruit another central midfielder before the window closes, with talks ongoing to transfer Donny van de Beek and interest in Scott McTominay remaining, while Marcel Sabitzer’s loan deal from the second half of last season was not renewed.
The Red Devils are now mired in an early-season injury crisis, with Raphael Varane, Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, Mason Mount, and Rasmus Hojlund all out injured, hastening their need to recruit players before the transfer window closes.
Along with Amrabat, they are close to signing goalkeeper Altay Bayindir from Fenerbahce, and they are hoping for a season-long loan signing for a left-back, with Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella being targeted.
