Turkish Giants Race for Van de Beek Transfer
Though the transfer window has closed for Premier League clubs, Manchester United still have the opportunity to offload some players, with Donny van de Beek being a prime candidate. Despite being linked with several moves throughout the summer, the Dutchman remains at the club, a week after the domestic window shut.
Van de Beek’s future at United looks bleak, and it’s highly unlikely he will feature this season. Manager Erik ten Hag had previously excluded him from a matchday squad, citing ongoing speculation regarding his future. The former Ajax midfielder has endured a tumultuous three years since his arrival under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, with his struggles compounded by a severe knee injury midway through last season.
The Dutchman did recover in time for pre-season and has been actively searching for a new club. Real Sociedad showed interest, but no deal materialised before the Spanish window closed. However, with the Turkish transfer market still open, Van de Beek’s hopes of a move remain alive. Reports from Football Insider suggest that Turkish giants Galatasaray and Fenerbahce are both vying to secure his signature before the window closes. Having already seen Eric Bailly and Fred move to Turkey, United are keen to see Van de Beek follow suit, freeing up squad space and reducing their wage bill. Notably, he was omitted from the club’s Champions League squad, and with two years left on his contract, now may be the opportune time to cut ties.
Dortmund Eye Sancho Reunion
Borussia Dortmund are reportedly considering a move to bring Jadon Sancho back to the Bundesliga, following his recent falling out with Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag. As per reports from the Daily Mail, Sancho was left out of the squad to face Arsenal last weekend despite being fit and available, leading to further speculation over his future at the club.
Sancho’s response to the snub, which included a public rebuttal of Ten Hag’s explanation, has left fans questioning his place in the squad moving forward. The situation may prompt clear-the-air discussions between player and manager, especially with a busy run of fixtures ahead. However, if relations remain strained and Sancho continues to be sidelined, Dortmund could offer him an escape in the upcoming January transfer window.
The 23-year-old winger has struggled to replicate the form he once showed in Germany, and a return to Dortmund could provide him with the opportunity to reignite his career. According to The Sun, the Bundesliga side are interested in re-signing the England international, should United make him available this winter.
Antony to Take Period of Absence
Manchester United have announced that winger Antony will not immediately return to the squad following the international break, after facing domestic violence and assault allegations from three different women. Brazil’s national team had already removed Antony from their World Cup qualifiers, and mounting pressure has led United to issue a statement confirming the decision.
In their statement, the club acknowledged the severity of the allegations and revealed that Antony’s return to training will be postponed. “Players who have not participated in international matches are due back in training on Monday. However, it has been agreed with Antony that he will delay his return until further notice in order to address the allegations.”
The club reaffirmed its stance on violence and abuse, stating, “As a club, we condemn acts of violence and abuse. We recognise the importance of safeguarding all those involved in this situation and acknowledge the impact these allegations have on survivors of abuse.” Antony has consistently denied the accusations and has agreed to take this period of absence to cooperate with the police.