Manchester United are close to announcing their first signing of the summer, with Feyenoord left-back Tyrell Malacia poised to become Erik ten Hag’s maiden reinforcement.
As per transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the 22-year-old has already undergone his medical at the club and signed his contract, which means that an official announcement from the club is not far away either.
Malacia has now, however, taken matters into his own hands as he confirms his arrival at United before the club. The Dutch international gave an interview to De Telegraaf, which has been carried by Sport Witness.
“I always followed Manchester United because Robin van Persie played there. That’s why I got an extra feeling with that,” Malacia said.
“In the youth [team] of Feyenoord we played a youth tournament at United and I said: ‘I will come back here someday’. That has now come true and that is of course wonderful!
“I’ve talked to him [Van Persie] about the club and the city. About residential areas. I also heard a lot through my childhood friend Tahith Chong, with whom I played at Feyenoord.
“Yes, proud but also very grateful that I get this opportunity. This is not for everyone and I understand that the work at an even higher level is only just beginning. Getting better every day and showing that you can measure up at this level.
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“I have worked hard all my career and this is a reward for that, for me and for all the people who have always supported me and believed in me. My parents, my family and close friends, my many years of guidance and mentor Tony Pengel. That’s why I think it’s great that I can share this with them.”
Malacia’s arrival will bolster United’s left flank as he is expected to battle for the number one spot with Luke Shaw, who is likely to start the season as Ten Hag’s first choice.
United’s two other left-backs, Alex Telles and Brandon Williams, are unlikely to feature this season and both players could leave the club before the window shuts in September.
SN’s verdict…
Considering the player has already undergone all the necessary checks and signed on the dotted line, official communication from United is simply a matter of time.
Malacia’s arrival follows the pattern of Ten Hag targetting players he is familiar with and considering United have gone for superstars in the past, it’s refreshing to see the club give the manager exactly what he wants rather than a big name.
As he showcases in the interview above, Malacia is evidently a determined young man and that kind of fight and desire was severely lacking last season.
