Alex McLeish has suggested that Everton might be in pole position to sign Donny van de Beek if Manchester United decide to sell him in the summer.
Many football fans rejoiced at the news of Donny van de Beek leaving Manchester United in January, with the midfielder ending a nightmarish time at Old Trafford. While he may have only moved to Everton on a loan deal, it will still be valuable, considering he will likely play more football than he did with the Red Devils.
The Dutchman suggested Frank Lampard was the reason why he joined the Toffees and has already gained the Everton fans’ trust in recent weeks. While there is still plenty of work ahead to bring success to Everton and gain match sharpness, van de Beek could finally start showing his best on English soil.
The midfielder was courted by several clubs in January, including Leeds United and Crystal Palace, with the latter coming very close to signing him, but it was Everton who came out on top. From the few games he has played for them, the Dutchman tipped to suit their style and Lampard’s tactics, which could lead to the club considering signing him permanently in the summer.
Manchester United have not indicated their willingness to sell the midfielder, as they only wanted the Dutchman to get valuable game time for the remainder of the campaign. However, there have been suggestions they could listen to reasonable offers in the summer, and in that case, many more clubs could join the queue for the midfielder.
Former Scotland manager Alex McLeish insists that if Manchester United decide to sell midfielder, Everton could have the upper hand. He told Football Insider why he felt the Toffees might be in pole position to sign van de Beek in the summer if the conditions favour a sale.
McLeish said, “There’s no doubt there’ll be a lot of clubs (interested). If Man United have signed him in the first place, then he’s obviously a player of great pedigree. A lot of clubs would have wanted him in the first place. They will be looking on with interest, keeping an eye on his situation. Of course, Everton might be in pole position.”
The midfielder could certainly be a great signing, especially if he performs well between now and the end of the current campaign. While he may also sit down in the summer to consider his options, the Toffees could be an exciting destination considering he would already be settled at the club.
The big question remains about the transfer fee Manchester United could demand. If the asking price is reasonable enough, Everton may have no problems paying it, although they might bow out of the race if the Red Devils ask for too much money.
