Manchester United are contemplating the permanent signing of midfielder Sofyan Amrabat from Fiorentina this summer. The Moroccan international initially joined United on loan for €10 million, with an option to buy for €20 million plus €5 million in add-ons.
Although Amrabat had a challenging start to his Premier League career, struggling with the league’s intensity and falling out of favor in early 2024, his form significantly improved towards the end of the season.
Amrabat’s resurgence was marked by his impressive performances in the final four games of the season, including a standout display in the FA Cup final against Manchester City, where United emerged victorious.
During this period, he demonstrated exceptional passing ability and work rate, earning consideration for a permanent move to Old Trafford.
The Manchester Evening News reports that the club has not ruled out this possibility, though a final decision may be delayed until the future of manager Erik ten Hag is clarified. Notably, both Amrabat and Ten Hag are represented by the same agency, Sports Entertainment Group.
Casemiro, United’s star midfielder, endured a difficult 2023/24 season, plagued by injuries and inconsistent performances. His struggles were evident as he lost possession frequently and was often bypassed by opponents.
These issues culminated in him losing his starting spot to Amrabat in the FA Cup final, where he was benched and subsequently withdrew due to an injury sustained during warm-up.
Given these challenges, United’s management might consider parting ways with the Brazilian veteran, especially with interest from Saudi Pro League giants Al-Nassr, who are reportedly prepared to offer a substantial fee.
In contrast, Amrabat has shown potential to be a valuable asset. Described as a ‘world-class’ player by Morocco manager Walid Regragui, he has begun to showcase his true capabilities in recent weeks.
While he may not be a massive upgrade over Casemiro, his performances suggest he could be a solid addition to United’s squad, providing reliability and depth in midfield. Moreover, securing Amrabat could be financially feasible, as the funds required for his transfer could be offset by the potential sale of Casemiro.
The decision to make Amrabat’s move permanent aligns with United’s broader strategy of bolstering their squad with players who can adapt to the demands of the Premier League and provide consistent performances.
As United looks to build on their recent successes and strengthen their position in domestic and European competitions, acquiring a player like Amrabat, who has proven his worth in crucial matches, could be a prudent move.
