Manchester United have set their asking price for midfielder Donny van de Beek amid formal interest from La Liga club Real Sociedad, Daily Mail report.
The Netherlands international has been with the Red Devils for the past three seasons, but he has yet to establish himself as a regular starter.
His chances of doing so next season are very less, considering there is now more competition for places in midfield after Mason Mount’s arrival.
Mount is anticipated to start in the number eight role next term with Christian Eriksen likely to provide the back-up from the substitutes’ bench.
Meanwhile, Bruno Fernandes has made the number 10 position his own. The new captain is widely expected to start in almost every game.
With this in mind, United have opened the door for Van de Beek’s exit, but they are unlikely to accept a significant loss to sanction his departure.
The Dutchman was purchased from Ajax for £35 million up front in 2020, and United are now eyeing at least £25m to part ways with his services.
Yesterday, it was confirmed that Sociedad made ‘formal contact‘ with United after speaking with the player’s representatives over the last week.
It will be interesting to see whether the Champions League outfit are willing to make such an outlay after losing a key player in David Silva this summer.
Silva recently suffered a serious knee injury with the Spanish side, and therefore confirmed his decision to retire from playing the game at the age of 37.
His departure has definitely left a void to fill in the attacking midfield role. Van de Beek could have the perfect platform to revive his career next term.
United are willing to offload him at their own terms. If Sociedad are eyeing a loan deal, the club should demand an obligatory buy clause on certain conditions.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
