While Manchester United mull over which midfield acquisition they hope to sanction before the end of the summer, ex-manager Jose Mourinho has tried his luck at pipping his former club to a signing.
Indeed, Fenerbache have now begun targeting Fiorentina’s Sofyan Amrabat, who remains on United’s shortlist after his loan spell expired at Old Trafford in June.
Fans will be well aware that the Reds opted against triggering his £25.4 million buy clause, which was ultimately the correct decision based on the season he’d overseen.
However, numerous reports have suggested that the Moroccan remains on INEOS’ shortlist if they’re unable to hash out a deal for Manuel Ugarte. The new co-owners saw first-hand last season how critical depth is when such an unprecedented injury crisis strikes, and Amrabat did put in a stellar shift in the FA Cup final triumph.
Fenerbache accelerate efforts to sign Amrabat
Turkish outlet Fanatik, cited by Football Italia, claims Fenerbache have submitted a €12m (£10.2m) bid to try and prise the 27-year-old from Florence before deadline day – but Fiorentina are holding out for at least €15m (£12.7m).
It remains to be seen if United would meet their demands and bring Amrabat back on a long-term contract.