As Real Madrid Back Out Last Minute, Manchester United Favorites To Sign $56M Midfielder: Report

Manchester United are reportedly the favorites to sign Ajax star Donny van de Beek as Real Madrid backed out after being inches close to sealing the deal ahead of the summer transfer market.

While Van de Beek, who had earlier agreed on a move to Real Madrid, is expected to head to Old Trafford next season despite preferring a move to the La Liga side.

According to news reports, Real were forced to take a last-minute U-turn in the Dutchman’s transfer because they are currently dealing with a massive $630 million bill to renovate the Bernabeu Stadium to ensure they suffer no issues surrounding the coronavirus pandemic.

Speaking to Veronica Inside website, Chief soccer correspondent of Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf Valentijn has revealed that Van de Beek was inches close to becoming a Real Madrid player because “the transfer was fixed” and only the player’s medical was yet to be performed.

“I now hear that Real Madrid is backtracking. The chance that he will go to Real Madrid is nil. The transfer fee was fixed. He was allowed to go for €50million. In fact, everything was agreed. It was only about the medical examination,” the soccer correspondent added.

The 23-year-old midfielder, who joined Ajax ahead of the 2015-16 season, has scored 10 goals in 37 matches in the 2019-20 campaign.

Ajax coach Ronald de Boer has also admitted that Van de Beek, whose transfer fee is expected to be around $56 million, is on his way to Old Trafford.

“When you hear these clubs go by, I know your heart beats faster. Maybe this train won't pass by him anymore. If Real Madrid again decide not to push for Donny, then I can understand it if he decides to go to Manchester United instead."

"On the one hand, I understand that Real Madrid are hesitating a bit. Another club could think, 'Hey, an interesting player, maybe we can get him for a little less'. For example, Manchester United,” the Netherlands legend added in an interview with Fox Sports, as reported by Daily Star.

Man Utd boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is looking to strengthen his squad ahead of 2020-21 season and Van de Beek has been on his list for a while along with the likes of Jadon Sancho of Dortmund and Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish.