Manchester United could attempt an ambitious move for Ajax midfielder Donny van de Beek in the January transfer window. The Red Devils need reinforcements in the midfield area following the injuries to Paul Pogba and Scott McTominay, and manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has shortlisted the 22-year-old for a midfield role.
According to ESPN, Manchester United have scouted van de Beek closely and have brought back positive reports on the Dutchman. Solskjaer is reportedly “pushing” Ed Woodward to make a few signings in the January transfer window, one of which could be van de Beek. The club feel that they could sign Donny van de Beek owing to Ajax’s exit from the Champions League. The Dutch side reportedly want more than £50 million for the 22-year-old.
The creative midfielder has come through the ranks at Ajax, before making his senior debut in 2015. He has gone on to make over 160 appearances for the Dutch side, scoring 39 goals and providing 31 assists in all competitions.
Donny van de Beek: The player Ole needs?
One of the main priorities for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in the January transfer window is central midfield as the Red Devils have a dearth of talent and experience in the middle of the park. Donny van de Beek could be a great addition to the Manchester United squad as he is a player that can unlock defences with his through balls and passes.
The Dutchman, who has scored 12 goals in all competitions this season, has the technique, temperament and vision to play through balls to forwards, while also scoring a decent number of goals from midfield. He can play as a deep-lying midfielder, as a central midfielder, or further forward as a No. 10 for his team.
A player who can play between the lines with his smart movement without the ball, Donny van de Beek could complement Fred and Scott McTominay in the middle of the park for Manchester United. With Paul Pogba’s future heading towards an Old Trafford exit, van de Beek could take the Frenchman’s place in the team. The 22-year-old has the potential to improve Manchester United as well as grow further as a player, which would mean that even a transfer fee of little over £50 million would still be of great value for the Red Devils.