Tyrell Malacia cites Ronaldo, Salah in bold Man Utd prediction, as Sir Alex Ferguson star’s transfer role revealed

Incoming Manchester United signing Tyrell Malacia has expressed his excitement at playing with and against the likes of Mohamed Salah and potentially Cristiano Ronaldo.

United will soon make Feyenoord left-back Malacia the first summer signing of the club’s new chapter. Indeed, manager Erik ten Hag believes his fellow Dutchman can impress at Old Trafford.

The 22-year-old is an exciting prospect, on whom the Red Devils are spending an initial £13million.

Malacia, who will reportedly sign a four-year United deal, played 50 games for Feyenoord last season. Contributing one goal and four assists, Ten Hag believes he can fit in nicely at his new club.

And speaking to De Telegraaf about his impending transfer, Malacia backed himself to shine in the Premier League.

“My team-mates at Feyenoord were very sad because I played together with some for so long and we really built a bond,” the Netherlands international said.

“Everyone wished me the best and I will always keep in touch with a lot of those guys. Feyenoord is my club – and it always will be. I am a boy of the club and of the city, so yes Feyenoord is my home and is forever in my heart.

“But I want to reach the highest level so there comes a moment when you have to say goodbye. I will never forget what I owe to Feyenoord.

“But I love the experience in the stadiums in England. Feyenoord comes closest to that in the Netherlands. It will be fantastic to experience and I can’t wait.

“I also feel the tempo and the spirit in the matches will suit my game. And just look at all the fantastic footballers in the Premier League: [Cristiano] Ronaldo, [Kevin] De Bruyne, [Mohamed] Salah – and in the past people like [Thierry] Henry, [Robin] Van Persie, [Ruud] Van Nistelrooy.”

And it is former Man Utd striker Van Persie who has had a massive influence on Malacia’s transfer. The 38-year-old is advancing his coaching career at Feyenoord and gave Malacia telling advice.

Malacia a big Man Utd fan

“I always followed Manchester United because Robin van Persie played there and he was a Feyenoord player,” Malacia said.

“He was a lad who came from the academy at Feyenoord, too – just like me. That’s why I got an extra feeling with this club. In the youth team of Feyenoord we played a youth tournament at United years ago – and I was so impressed by everything.

“I said to myself ‘I’ll come back here one day.’ That has now come true and that is, of course, wonderful.”

Tyrell Malacia to be first Manchester United signing

Manchester United have hijacked a deal for Tyrell Malacia from Feyenoord who was set to join Lyon

Malacia added that he also confided in Tahith Chong, a United talent who was a Feyenoord youth prospect alongside United’s latest acquisition.

On the link-up with Ten Hag, Malacia revealed their initial talks brought about a “very good connection”, one that could lead to “many years” working together.

“I’m looking forward to that, because I think I can learn a lot from him,” Malacia added. “He has a record for improving players individually, as long as they are prepared to work hard.”

Man Utd need more additions

Malacia’s arrival at United will bolster their full-back ranks as the five-cap international has also played at right-back on occasion.

It remains unclear how the signing will affect the other left-backs in the squad. Luke Shaw is looking to prove himself after a tough season, with Alex Telles potentially more in the firing line now.

However, it is only a small part of the business Man Utd need to get through this summer.

They need midfield reinforcements. Their attack could also become a key issue if Cristiano Ronaldo follows up on his desire to leave.