Paul Merson says he is ‘shocked’ Manchester United and Liverpool transfer target Sofyan Amrabat hasn’t left Fiorentina yet.
The Sky Sports pundit shared that he is a ‘big, big fan’ of the defensive-minded midfielder and he thought Sofyan Amrabat would have either moved by now or clubs would be ‘queuing’ up for him, as he told Soccer Special on Sky Sports (30/08/23 at 7:20 pm).
Transfer deadline day is upon us and, both Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United and Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool, are expected to be busy.
There is every chance Amrabat leaves Florence before the clock strikes midnight, with previous suggestions of Jurgen Klopp wanting the 27-year-old at Anfield.
Well, if he does secure a move, then it seems as though it will be to Manchester United, instead, because it has been suggested that he wants to move to Old Trafford.
Nonetheless, with Amrabat still in the colours of Fiorentina, Merson lauded the player and how he got the better of Declan Rice during last season’s Europa Conference League final.
On why Man United have accelerated interest in Amrabat: “They need someone now, they are too open,” said Merson. “If you watch them in their last three games, they are all over the place.
“He is a good player. I thought in the Conference final, I thought he got the better of Declan Rice. I thought he was absolutely outstanding. He stays. Holds his position and is solid. Amrabat will hold his shape. You know someone who will sit in front of the back four.
“I am a big, big fan of his. I am shocked no one has come in for him. I thought there would be teams queuing, especially given that everyone is looking for this holding midfield player. I am quite shocked he hasn’t gone anywhere.”
Manchester United and Liverpool could do with Amrabat
A player who can cover cover ground and protect the back four to the highest order, Amrabat is a player that Manchester United and Liverpool need.
Whilst the Reds have added to that department this summer, it’s pretty clear that more legs and a more defensive mind is needed.
Whereas, over at Old Trafford, it has been a glum start for Manchester United, who are being bossed in midfield, with the likes of Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro needing that box-to-box type of player beside them.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
