With news of Manchester United needing to offload to make more signings has become more important with the start of the Premier League looming over Old Trafford. The club will still feel they are short two new signings to help them really bolster a challenge on all fronts.
One player that does look likely to leave United is the failed signing from Ajax, Donny van de Beek, who has not cut the grade with the Manchester United hierarchy since he arrived in 2020.
Where did it go wrong for van de Beek at Manchester United?
The Dutch midfielder struggled in his first season with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer at the helm, and opportunities were limited. However, even in the appearances van de Beek got, he did not impress, considering he cost £40 million.
Solskjaer tried van de Beek in several positions, but he failed to break past the likes of Bruno Fernandes, Scott McTominay, Fred, Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic.
After the departure of Solskjaer, he picked up a big injury that kept him out for several months. Even with a loan move to Everton, he did not show that Manchester United were missing out on anything.
The arrival of his master Erik ten Hag has not changed anything, and it looks like the end now.
What next for van de Beek?
With time coming to an end for the former Ajax man, United have set a value for the 26-year-old. Having spent £40 million 3 years ago, United wants £25 million for him.
With the main interest coming from Spain for the creative midfielder, Real Sociedad is the La Liga side leading the way. The move would see him still able to play Champions League football because of Sociedad finished 4th in the league.
The valuation does seem high, considering the length of his contract and how long he was out with his injury. It is yet to be seen if van de Beek can recreate the form he had with Ajax that made Manchester United make a move for him.