ALAN PARDEW believes Sofyan Amrabat’s move to Manchester United is already a DONE DEAL.
The former Crystal Palace manager has explained how a little-known transfer secret could mean the move has been completed for “weeks”.
SkySportsAlan Pardew has a theory about Sofyan Amrabat[/caption]
GettyAmrabat has been strongly linked with a move to Manchester United[/caption]
Amrabat has been linked with the Red Devils since starring for Morocco at last year’s World Cup.
However, United have so far been unable to agree a deal with Fiorentina to bring him to Old Trafford.
That has not stopped Pardew suggesting that the deal may have actually been done for a while, despite reports.
Appearing as a pundit on Sky Sports’ Soccer Special, he discussed United’s pursuit of the Moroccan midfielder.
“It might well be that this deal’s been done for a while and Man United have been angling for the price,” explained Pardew.
“That’s why some of the other big clubs haven’t got involved because they know it’s done and that does happen.
“You’ll get players that will move this week but the deal was done a month ago, six weeks ago.
“They’ll say ‘well be patient, we’re getting the deal done, we’re working on the club.”
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Erik ten Hag has been keen to reunite with Amrabat after previously working with him at Utrecht.
His transfer plans have been hindered by Financial Fair Play rules, though.
The collapse of Harry Maguire’s £30million move to West Ham has seen United explore a loan deal for Amrabat.
However, their opening approach was rejected by Fiorentina this week.
In another blow, Nottingham Forest have reportedly had a £17million bid accepted by the Serie A side, although Amrabat has turned down the move.
United have until Friday’s 11pm transfer deadline to complete the signing of Amrabat.