Fiorentina’s squad for their pre-season clash against Newcastle has one noticeable absentee: Sofyan Ambrabat.
The Moroccan midfielder has been heavily linked to Manchester United, with Erik ten Hag looking to transform his midfield, having already recruited Mason Mount from Chelsea for £60million.
Amrabat was linked with a Premier League move following his standout performances at the 2022 World Cup with Morocco.
Now, the midfielder won’t be taking part in his side’s friendly against Newcastle this weekend, as per transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
The clubs are expected to open formal talks for Amrabat as soon as Fred and Donny van de Beek are close to leaving the club.
Earlier this week, talkSPORT brought you the news Amrabat is so keen to join Man United that he is willing to snub a big-money offer from Saudi Arabia.
Fiorentina’s opponents this weekend had star Allan Saint-Maximin sign for Al Ahli this summer, and they are keen to bring Amrabat to the Saudi Pro League.
But sources close to the ace, who helped Morocco to the semi-finals of the World Cup, say he only has eyes for the Red Devils.
Amrabat has been on Erik ten Hag’s radar since coming through the youth ranks of Dutch side Utrecht.
But the Red Devils will need to sell either Van de Beek, who is wanted by Real Sociedad, or Galatasaray target Fred to finance a move for Amrabat.
Amrabat has played 107 games for Fiorentina and has now entered the final year of his contract.
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Meanwhile, Rasmus Hojlund is expected to be confirmed by Man United shortly.
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