Manchester United

Manchester United

Premier League • England

Ten Hag in dreamland as Man Utd push through huge Sofyan Amrabat transfer; star signs for ‘club of my dreams’

Sofyan Amrabat at the World Cup

Manchester United have confirmed the signing of Sofyan Amrabat after a long-protracted chase, with the arrival of the Moroccan midfielder bringing to a close a summer-long chase for the player.

United boss Erik Ten Hag has been backed handsomely once again this summer, sealing three signings to the tune of some £172m prior to deadline day. But despite the captures of Andre Onana, Rasmus Hojlund and Mason Mount, Ten Hag still had holes in his squad and was desperate to bolster the base of his midfield, as well as a few other key positions.

Now a busy day – that also saw the signing of Jonny Evans on a one-year deal, Sergio Reguilon on loan and a new goalkeeper in Altay Bayindir brought in – has finally seen Ten Hag land the biggest prize of all in Amrabat.

The departing Fiorentina midfielder has been on United’s radar for most of the summer. The Red Devils agreed personal terms with the player weeks ago, but La Viola’s decision to hold firm for a fee of €30m – €35m left United with a few issues to solve; not least how they would finance the deal and remain within their FFP limits.

Indeed, there did appear a risk they could miss out on his signing with other clubs entering the race, most notably Fulham. However, Amrabat was only intent on signing for United and now his patience has been rewarded.

He is joining United on an initial loan deal, worth €10m (£8.6m) to Fiorentina. As part of the agreement, United have an obligation to make the move permanent next summer. That will see United pay the Serie A side a further €20m (£17.1m), with a further €5m (£4.3m) in bonuses and add-ons, taking the total package to some €35m (£29.96m).

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Sofyan Amrabat speaks out as Man Utd deal is confirmed

Amrabat has signed a long-term deal at Old Trafford and speaking to the club’s official website, he said: “It is a huge honour to become a Manchester United player. I’ve had to be patient for this moment but I’m someone who always listens to my heart and now I am representing the club of my dreams.

“I am a passionate player; I want to bring that energy to the squad, and I will put everything into every action I take for the team.

“I know exactly how Erik ten Hag likes to work and what he needs from his players. His coaching and guidance developed me so much as a player earlier in my career.

“I know that he will help to bring out the best of my abilities so that I can help the group to be successful this season.”

The World Cup semi-finalist links up with Ten Hag for the second time in his career, having played under him at Utrecht earlier in his career.

He won’t be in contention for his debut this weekend against Arsenal, but could come into the reckoning after the international break when United face Brighton at Old Trafford on Saturday 16 September.

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