Galatasaray’s vice-president has claimed they had ‘largely agreed’ a deal to sign Sofyan Amrabat before Manchester United swooped in two days before transfer deadline day.
Throughout the summer, it seemed destined Amrabat would leave Fiorentina after performing admirably at last winter’s World Cup in Qatar. United were one of the clubs linked with the defensive midfielder and this interest was ramped up in August when it became apparent the Reds needed to bolster their options in his position.
However, the 27-year-old had his heart set on a move away from Florence and according to Erden Timur, Galatasaray were close to ensuring this wish was granted. But, the Reds’ late interest changed the conversation.
Explaining what happened to a deal for the defensive midfielder, Timur said: “We largely agreed with Sofyan Amrabat. With Fiorentina, we were at a level where we could reach a point [of approval].
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“Manchester United came on Wednesday evening and as the player has said before, his former manager was also there. He rejected the big teams and waited for us, but it didn’t happen.”
United would eventually complete the deal with half an hour remaining of the summer transfer window with Amrabat joining on a season-long loan switch. Discussing his reasoning for linking up with Erik ten Hag again, the Moroccan international said: “It’s fantastic because I think Erik ten Hag is a coach who will push always to the limit.
“He’s hungry. He wants to win. He’s a winner and I like that. I think I’m also similar, I’m also a winner. I want to win every day so it’s a good match.”
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