According to trade specialist Fabrizio Romano, Manchester United is “considering” Sofyan Amrabat of Fiorentina as “one of their possibilities for the midfielder,” but any deal will be very “expensive.”
Is Sofyan Amrabat joining Manchester United?
Erik ten Hag had a great debut season in command of United last year. For the Dutchman’s first season in England, a top-four finish and a Carabao Cup title were certainly more than most spectators and observers anticipated.
The club hierarchy appears to be rewarding him for his success as well, as they have been relatively active in the transfer window so far, bringing in Mason Mount from Premier League rival Chelsea last month and appearing likely to complete the deal to bring in Inter Milan goalkeeper Andre Onana in the near future.
These are excellent acquisitions for the club, but there is a feeling that additional midfield additions are needed if the team hopes to contend for the championship again next year. Amrabat, a 26-year-old player, is one who may be of assistance in that respect.
The Huizen-born powerhouse has reportedly been identified by the Red Devils as one of their goals, but a deal might be pricey as Fiorentina will likely demand between €35m and €40m (£30m and £34m) to complete the transfer.
On his YouTube channel, he gave a situational explanation and stated:
“Sofyan Amrabat is reportedly one of the players Manchester United is considering, according to what I’ve heard.
Erik ten Hag is aware that Sofyan Amrabat is one of the players available; nevertheless, because Fiorentina are notorious for being difficult to deal with, it is believed that Manchester United are now examining Sofyan Amrabat as one of their midfield alternatives.
The calibre of Sofyan Amrabat?
Amrabat has had a fantastic year, both with his club and the national team, and during that time he has been repeatedly thrust into the public eye.
The 2022–23 domestic campaign went well for the Moroccan international. He participated in 29 league games for Serie A team Fiorentina, with a match rating of 6.46, 89.8% passing accuracy, and one assist.
His underlying statistics are intriguing since he performs admirably in some instances while falling short in others that are crucial.
He ranks in the top 5% for pass completion, the top 8% for progressive passes, the top 11% for attempted passes, and the top 33% for progressive carries, all per 90, according to FBref, who compare players in a comparable position across Europe’s top five leagues.
For interceptions, shot-creating actions, successful take-ons, and clearances, he ranks in the bottom 42%; for tackles, the bottom 32%; and for blocks, the bottom 30%, all per 90 and per FBref.
He appears to be an excellent passer based on those statistics, making him a crucial midfielder if your team needs assistance moving the ball from the backline to the front three. He still needs to work on developing his own offensive threat, and his defensive contribution is dishonest.
However, his spectacular performance in helping Morocco reach the World Cup semifinals last year proves he is more than capable of competing at the greatest level. As a result of his performances, writer Amine El Amri waxed lyrical over him on TalkSPORT, saying:
“Sofyan Amrabat is not only a raging bull but also a fantastic football player.
I believe he has been the best midfielder in this World Cup, despite my best efforts to remain objective.
It will be intriguing to watch how I Viola’s “midfield monster” adjusts to the Premier League should United decide to pursue him. He yet seems to have the potential to succeed if given the chance.