Manchester United have made their first signing of this summer. Ajax midfielder Donny van de Beek has completed his medical and is ready to join the Red Devils. The official announcement will be made soon.
…and Donny van de Beek is a Red Devils after having medicals completed today – gonna sign his contract until June 2025. 🔴✍🏻️ #MUFC
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 1, 2020
📲 More details: https://t.co/y1WwoCXAGQ
The Netherlands international has signed a five-year deal worth £120,000 per week, with an option to extend a further year.
The Athletic’s Adam Crafton revealed today that the key figure in this transfer deal was manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
Crafton explained: “Before committing to the transfer, [Van de Beek] insisted upon holding talks with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Those familiar with the deal say that Van de Beek came off the phone immediately convinced by the Norwegian’s pitch.”
“Van de Beek was excited to hear how Solskjaer would fit him into United’s midfield alongside Paul Pogba and Bruno Fernandes. Solskjaer’s response was said to be authoritative.”
Many top European clubs were interested in signing the 23-year-old but Solskjaer’s talk convinced him to come to Old Trafford.
The report claimed: “Reports over the weekend indicated serious interest from Tottenham and Barcelona in Van de Beek. Members of Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman’s backroom staff are believed to have a strong relationship with the player.”
“It is true the two clubs were kept abreast but it is also the case that after speaking to Solskjaer, Van de Beek’s representatives made clear that the player’s future would lie at Old Trafford.”
“Throughout the whole process, including Real Madrid, Solskjaer is the only manager outside of Ajax who has spoken to Van de Beek about a transfer.”
Crafton also claimed that former Manchester United players Edwin van der Sar, now CEO at Ajax, and Daley Blind also encouraged Van de Beek to move to Old Trafford. Former Arsenal star Dennis Bergkamp also advised him to choose the Premier League.
But ultimately, it was United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer who was the key to this transfer deal as “Every coach can say they want you, but it takes a very special coach to explain exactly why they want you. Ole convinced Donny entirely.”
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