Manchester United are reportedly preparing a move for another Dutch player after beginning discussions with Joshua Zirkzee and Matthijs de Ligt. Manager Erik ten Hag has been closely monitoring Euro 2024 developments, with England’s semi-final victory over the Netherlands shifting his focus back to club matters.
On Thursday, United confirmed the return of Ruud van Nistelrooy as Ten Hag’s new assistant, alongside Rene Hake, with several Dutch players potentially joining the team.
The FA Cup holders are proactive in the transfer market, with Zirkzee undergoing a medical on Friday for his transfer from Bologna.
Additionally, United are strongly interested in Xavi Simons, as reported by The Sun. Simons, who scored in the Euro 2024 semi-final against England, saw his Netherlands team eliminated, and now turns his focus to his club future.
PSG, dealing with Kylian Mbappe’s departure to Real Madrid, have not decided Simons’ fate but will have no shortage of interest if they choose to sell.
At 21, Simons is eager for regular top-tier playtime, which he could find at Old Trafford under Ten Hag.
The Dutch manager continues his trend of signing players from the Netherlands, with ongoing talks for Zirkzee and De Ligt. Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS, now influential in United’s transfer strategies, is working to bolster Ten Hag’s squad, with Simons as a possible addition.
United might negotiate a loan for Simons, potentially including a buy obligation. Any deal will likely feature a sell-on clause for PSV Eindhoven, where Simons transferred from last summer for £5m. PSG, in a strong negotiating position, would demand around £70m for the promising young talent.
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