Confirmed Man Utd target ‘pushing’ for different move that will wreck Tottenham transfer

A European giant are ‘well placed’ to sign a Tottenham starter, though a confirmed Man Utd target is ‘pushing’ for a move that would see the Spurs deal aborted, per a report.

Fabrizio Romano recently confirmed Fiorentina and Morocco ace, Sofyan Amrabat, is on Man Utd’s radar. The Red Devils will prioritise wrapping up a deal for Andre Onana and signing a new striker first. However, once that business has been tended to, a defensive midfielder is wanted.

Amrabat, 26, features on United’s shortlist and is understood to be available for transfer this summer. Gazzetta dello Sport claimed around a bid of around £25.6m could do the trick, while Amrabat also counts Liverpool and LaLiga sides among his suitors.

According to a fresh update from Marca (as cited by Sport Witness), one of the Spanish sides mulling a move for Amrabat is Atletico Madrid.

Diego Simeone’s side recently held a meeting to discuss potential midfield recruits. Amrabat was one of four players Atleti chiefs ran the rule over. The others were Marco Verratti (PSG), Martin Zubimendi (Real Sociedad) and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg (Tottenham).

The latter, 27, could leave Spurs this window despite being a regular starter in each of his three seasons with the club.

Ange Postecoglou’s side are described as ‘wanting to sell’ Hojbjerg this summer by Sport Witness. Elsewhere, Fabrizio Romano declared Hojbjerg is “really keen” to experience a new challenge.

Spanish outlet AS claimed Hojbjerg’s potential switch to Atleti was ramping up. ‘Numerous mini meetings’ regarding a deal are believed to have been held.

But per the latest from Marca, only one of Hojbjerg and Amrabat will be signed. What’s more, Amrabat is described as ‘pushing for a move to the Metropolitano’.

As such, if Atleti move for Amrabat, both Man Utd and Spurs will be left disappointed. Indeed, Tottenham won’t have found a buyer for Hojbjerg and Amrabat will have eluded United.

Alternatively, if Atleti strike a deal for Hojbjerg, Postecoglou will be selling an unfancied player and Man Utd will be free to step up their pursuit of Amrabat.

Per AS, Spurs have quoted Atleti a hefty price tag of €45m (£38.5m) for Hojbjerg. Simeone’s side will no doubt attempt to negotiate a lower fee, though Atleti do have viable alternatives if Tottenham are unwilling to compromise.

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