Since his £40 million move from Ajax to Manchester United in 2020, Donny van de Beek has struggled to make a significant impact.
Despite an unsuccessful loan spell at Everton two seasons ago, the 26-year-old midfielder has only played 21 minutes of football this season and made a mere 12 appearances for United since Erik ten Hag took charge in the summer of 2022.
Recent developments reveal that a deal has been reached with Eintracht Frankfurt, where Van de Beek is set to spend the second half of the season on loan.
The agreement includes an option to buy, as well as triggers that could make the deal permanent. However, the deal is reportedly worth less than half of what United initially paid for the Dutch midfielder.
Van de Beek, eager for a fresh start, is enthusiastic about the move, and Frankfurt is hopeful of obtaining permission from United for him to join the squad before the end of 2023, facilitating a quicker integration into the first-team setup.
Frankfurt’s final game before the Bundesliga winter break is scheduled for December 20 against Borussia Monchengladbach, with their return to action on January 13 away at RB Leipzig.
Earlier reports had indicated that Frankfurt was swift in negotiating with United, making them the front-runners to secure Van de Beek’s signature. Real Sociedad, who engaged in talks with United during the summer before negotiations fell through, remained interested.
Additionally, La Liga leaders Girona, former club Ajax, and Premier League teams Crystal Palace and Fulham all expressed interest, but it appears Van de Beek is on his way to Germany with Frankfurt.
The Dutch midfielder may not be the only departure from Manchester United in January, as Casemiro, a target for the Saudi Pro League, reportedly acknowledges that his time at the club is drawing to a close.
Uncertain futures also loom for Jadon Sancho, Raphael Varane, and Anthony Martial, who either face exclusion under Ten Hag or have contracts expiring at the end of the season. The upcoming transfer window could see significant changes in the composition of Manchester United’s squad.
