Manchester United are not poised to seal the signature of Fiorentina midfielder Sofyan Amrabat, according to The Athletic‘s David Ornstein.

Reports in the Italian media over the last couple of days have claimed that the Red Devils are “one step away” from signing  the Moroccan international but, speaking to Rio Ferdinand’s FIVE Youtube channel, Ornstein played down those rumours:

“I don’t think this has moved to the degree that some reports suggest. Personally, I am not aware a deal is close to being done or agreed [for Amrabat] but, perhaps, it’s one that could be acted upon in terms of a fairly reasonable price point, in a position United might need to strengthen in if there are departures. Maybe that is one that could develop a little bit later on [in the transfer window] as opposed to immediately.”

Ornstein went on to say that, while discussions with the player’s camp are likely to have taken place, any transfer is likely to be dependent on outgoings.

Three midfielders could leave Old Trafford this summer

It looks as if someone will need to be sold by United in order to make room for Amrabat. Fred is the likeliest to be offloaded, with interest from Galatasaray, but the Turkish club have yet to meet the Red Devils’ valuation.

Scott McTominay is attracting interest from West Ham but that deal could also be complicated by the reported £40m price tag that has been slapped on the player.

Donny van de Beek is tipped to leave if a buyer can be found too. Nottingham Forest, Crystal Palace and Wolves are all thought to be potential suitors in the Premier League.

Amrabat would be an economical solution to strengthen United’s midfield

Fiorentina are not expected to be demanding a sizeable amount for Amrabat, with it being suggested that they would let the 26-year-old go for around €30m (£26m) to €35m (£30m).

For that reason, United may see him as a realistic target, who could still be signed before the end of the summer.