Manchester United 'remain hopeful of offloading Donny van de Beek to Turkey'

Manchester United are reportedly still working on an exit for Donny van de Beek, with the club attempting to offload him to Turkey before their transfer window closes.

The Netherlands international was linked with a host of clubs during the summer market, with Real Sociedad, at one stage, thought to be close to securing his signature.

The La Liga outfit ultimately dropped their interest, while the midfielder's attitude towards a switch to Lorient is said to have cost him the chance to join the French side before last Friday's deadline.

There had also been suggestions of interest from the Saudi Pro League, but the division's transfer window slammed shut on Thursday, with Mohamed Salah staying at Liverpool and Jadon Sancho remaining at Man United despite both players being linked with late departures.

According to the Manchester Evening News, Van de Beek could now be forced to remain with Man United until January despite not being in the plans of Red Devils head coach Erik ten Hag.

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The report claims that Man United remain hopeful of moving him on to Turkey, with their transfer window not closing until September 15.

Fenerbahce and Galatasaray are seen as the two favourites, but it is far from certain that a move will occur, with the latter recently securing a loan switch for Tottenham Hotspur's Tanguy Ndombele.

Man United have dealt with Fenerbahce twice already this summer, with Brazilian midfielder Fred making the switch to the Turkish outfit, while goalkeeper Altay Bayindir moved to Old Trafford.

Van de Beek missed the second half of last season with a serious knee injury, but he did return during the team's preparations for the 2023-24 campaign.

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The 26-year-old has not been included in a matchday squad for the Red Devils this season, though, due to the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.

The midfielder was also a notable absentee from the Man United squad that was chosen for the group stage of the Champions League.

Van de Beek has another two years left to run on his contract at Old Trafford, with the option of a further 12 months, but he seemingly does not have a future at the club.

The Dutchman has found it difficult to make his mark for the 20-time English champions since his arrival from Ajax in September 2020, only managing two goals and two assists in 60 appearances in all competitions.