Since his £40 million transfer from Ajax to Manchester United in 2020, Donny van de Beek has encountered challenges establishing a notable impact. Despite an unsuccessful loan stint at Everton two seasons ago, the 26-year-old midfielder has only seen 21 minutes of play this season and participated in a mere 12 games for United since Erik ten Hag assumed control in the summer of 2022.
Recent developments unveil an agreement with Eintracht Frankfurt, where Van de Beek is slated for a loan in the second half of the season. The deal encompasses an option to buy, along with triggers that could potentially make the move permanent. However, reports suggest that the deal’s value is less than half of United’s initial payment for the Dutch midfielder.
Eager for a fresh start, Van de Beek is enthusiastic about the move, and Frankfurt is hopeful of securing permission from United for him to join the squad before the end of 2023, expediting integration into the first-team setup. Frankfurt’s last game before the Bundesliga winter break is set for December 20 against Borussia Monchengladbach, with their return scheduled for January 13 against RB Leipzig.
Earlier reports indicated Frankfurt’s swift negotiations with United, making them frontrunners to secure Van de Beek’s signature. Despite interest from Real Sociedad, Girona, former club Ajax, and Premier League teams Crystal Palace and Fulham, it appears Van de Beek is on his way to Germany with Frankfurt.
Van de Beek might not be the sole departure from Manchester United in January, as Casemiro, a target for the Saudi Pro League, reportedly acknowledges his imminent departure. Uncertainties surround the futures of Jadon Sancho, Raphael Varane, and Anthony Martial, who could face exclusion under Ten Hag or have contracts expiring at the season’s end. The upcoming transfer window may witness substantial changes in Manchester United’s squad composition.
