Manchester United have an agreement in place with Fiorentina midfielder Sofyan Amrabat on personal terms, according to La Nazione (via Firenzeviola.it)

The Italian newspaper claims that, while the Red Devils have not reached a deal with his club over a transfer fee yet, there are negotiations being held for the Moroccan to make the switch to Old Trafford.

Amrabat has actually played for manager Erik ten Hag before, when the Dutchman was manager of FC Utrecht between 2015 and 2017, so it isn’t surprising that he would be keen on signing him for United.

The 26-year-old had an excellent World Cup for Morocco, helping his country reach the semi-finals in Qatar, and the player has been heavily linked with a transfer since then.

Amrabat has been praised by many pundits

After Morocco defeated Spain in the last 16 back in December, Amrabat’s performance in the match was singled out by former England star Joe Cole who said:

“Amrabat, outstanding. As good a holding midfielder we’ve seen at the tournament in terms of defensive instinct.”

United may not prioritise a move for another midfielder

After agreeing a deal to sign Mason Mount from Chelsea, there is a feeling that the Red Devils will focus on recruiting players in other areas of the pitch.

While Amrabat is, of course, a very different player to Mount, United are expected to pursue a new goalkeeper and new striker first before looking at strengthening their midfield options further.

With the likes of Fred and Scott McTominay still at the club, it may be the case that one (or perhaps both) will have to leave Old Trafford before more reinforcements are sought in the middle of the park. An approach for Amrabat could still happen but it will more than likely have to wait until later in the summer.