Match of the Day pundit has already issued verdict on Man Utd transfer ‘target’ Sofyan Amrabat

Match of the Day pundit Micah Richards had already raved about reported Manchester United target Sofyan Amrabat.

United are said to be closing in on the signing of the central midfielder who enjoyed a superb World Cup with Morocco last winter. La Nazione, via Sport Witness, say Erik ten Hag is a ‘huge fan’ of the holding midfielder and that the Red Devils already have an ‘economic agreement’ with the player ahead of a possible summer transfer.

It’s claimed United are now in talks with Amrabat’s current club Fiorentina in a bid to agree a fee, which is likely to be in the region of £26million.

The holding midfielder is still only 26, and Fiorentina have an option to extend his current contract by one year to 2025, giving them some extra leverage. Amrabat is also coming off a superb World Cup where he was one of the stand-out players of the competition, dominating the midfield for Morocco as they surprised many by reaching the semi-finals in Qatar.

Interestingly, Match of the Day pundit Richards issued his verdict on Amrabat during that World Cup, saying: “It was the epitome of this team, brilliant. He’s been outstanding, not just off the ball, on the ball, dictating play, starting attacks from midfield. Great.”

Amrabat has been eyed by the likes of Barcelona in the past, according to reports, but United might just get there first as they look to add strength in depth in the midfield. Casemiro is currently the starting holding midfielder under Ten Hag, but Amrabat will not only provide cover, but he will give the Dutchman the option of playing with a double pivot, which could come in handy, especially when playing against better teams or trying to close out a game.