Manchester United’s propensity for excessive spending has placed the club in a precarious financial position concerning Financial Fair Play (FFP), necessitating the prioritization of revenue generation over recruitment efforts. Consequently, the new co-owners, INEOS, are strategizing a significant summer overhaul, with reports indicating that more than ten players could depart as part of an initiative to generate in excess of €100 million through player sales.
Among those likely to depart is Donny van de Beek, who has endured a challenging tenure at Old Trafford since his €39 million transfer in 2020. Van de Beek has started just 19 games over his first two seasons, with both Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and interim manager Ralf Rangnick citing concerns over his consistency and suitability for regular starting roles.
Donny’s nightmare United spell
The previous manager of RB Leipzig, in a further development, authorized a loan departure to Everton, which also proved unsuccessful. Upon Erik ten Hag’s appointment as manager, it was anticipated that the former Ajax coach could revitalize the versatile midfielder.
Both individuals had previously achieved considerable success in Amsterdam. However, upon Ten Hag’s arrival in Manchester, he encountered a player devoid of confidence, often appearing as a mere shadow during matches.
During the tenure of the Dutchman, the 25-year-old featured in only four games last season and managed a mere 21 minutes this term before the decision was made to loan him to Eintracht Frankfurt, with the Bundesliga side possessing the option to permanently acquire him for €10 million.
Nevertheless, Van de Beek has only started four times for the German club thus far, with Dino Toppmoller even opting to exclude him from the UEFA Conference League squad.
It is improbable that Frankfurt will opt for a permanent deal with the Dutch international, and according to Soccer News, Ajax might seize the opportunity, especially with Manchester United eager to offload him.
However, the Dutch giants are hesitant to pay €10 million for their former standout, and United might agree to an even more discounted price to alleviate Van de Beek’s wage burden.
“The decision regarding the midfielder’s future in the Bundesliga has already been made: in Frankfurt, there is doubt regarding whether the former Ajax player justifies the agreed-upon amount of ten million euros.”
Further discount
Van de Beek is poised to resume duties at Manchester United in the coming months; however, the club is eager to expedite his departure. The motivation behind United’s desire to offload Van de Beek stems in part from compliance with Financial Fair Play regulations and prospective acquisitions. Ajax has long been rumored as a potential destination for the midfielder, with the Johan Cruijff ArenA identified as a venue in need of bolstering. Additionally, Van de Beek presents an attractive prospect in terms of affordability, as Manchester United aims to secure a transfer fee of ten million euros, leaving room for negotiation.
The decline in Van de Beek’s market value to a dismal €7 million underscores the significant setback in his career trajectory. Returning to familiar surroundings may offer a chance to rejuvenate his prospects. Manchester United appears prepared to accept a fee in line with his depreciated value, thus incurring a substantial loss on their initial investment.