Man United could be an option for Adrien Rabiot in this summer’s transfer window.
The story of Manchester United’s pursuit of a marquee midfield addition during the summer transfer window of 2022 is not likely to be forgotten anytime soon.
After placing all of their hopes on acquiring Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong, United ultimately had to turn elsewhere in order to complete the construction of Erik ten Hag’s revamped midfield. The story continued endlessly, but it never got De Jong to Old Trafford.
Naturally, United eventually chose Casemiro, selecting him a little more than a week following the historic 4-0 stuffing at Brentford. Because of the stark disparities in the two athletes’ profiles, others thought it was a knee-jerk reaction.
But United required a defensive midfielder of the highest caliber, and Casemiro delivered, coming from Real Madrid to the team for an initial £60 million transfer. However, United made an attempt to bring Adrien Rabiot to M16 in between ending their pursuit of De Jong and presenting Casemiro to the Old Trafford supporters moments before the team’s 2-1 victory over Liverpool.
Juventus and United reached an agreement in principle for United to sign the France international in a move that might have cost as much as £20 million. But because to his salary demands, the Reds were forced to give up on signing the former Paris Saint-Germain star.
Rabiot was rumored to have demanded a “obscene” wage at the time. As his agent, his mother Veronique conducted negotiations on his behalf.
United is once again being connected to the 29-year-old’s signature, nearly two years after they gave up on signing him. Since his Juventus contract expired last month, he is currently free to sign with any team.
According to a story that surfaced on Thursday morning from Italy, Rabiot is now willing to have “discussions” about the next phase of his career with clubs, including United. This summer, the Old Trafford team is looking for new midfield talent, particularly a defensive-minded player.
Further signings may depend on departures since United has already finalized the signing of Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee and is nearing the acquisition of Lille defender Leny Yoro. They are still very much linked to Manuel Ugarte of PSG in terms of their search for a new midfield player.
But Rabiot’s availability for free and lack of a club right now might entice United to renew their interest in his services. He would be a good addition for many clubs on a free transfer as he is still under 30.
Rabiot has previously acknowledged that he would like to have experience playing in the Premier League, amid rumors he may start discussions with United. While representing his country at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, he made the admission.
Rabiot responded, “It was a very good experience,” to a query regarding his 2008 experience working with Manchester City’s academy in England. “However, I didn’t work on a full season.
“I had a great time when I was there. I thought the vibe was great. In actuality, it is unique to England. Compared to France and Italy, it is distinct.
“I’ve always stated that my professional goal is to play in England. That’s still what I want. In the Premier League, I would like to advance.”
He went on to say, “I don’t currently have a Premier League team in mind.” I haven’t made any team or other decisions. It’s a universal issue.
“What draws me in most is the league and the caliber of play that’s being played. It fits with my attributes.”
Rabiot may be enticed to test himself in England for the first time because he has senior level experience playing in both France and Italy. He hasn’t ruled out the option, for sure.