Man Utd target Sofyan Amrabat has already blown away Gary Neville

Gary Neville would no doubt back Manchester United’s pursuit of Fiorentina defensive midfielder Sofyan Amrabat. The Red Devils legend was in awe of his superb performances at the World Cup.

Neville sang Amrabat’s praises following what he described as an “absolutely brilliant” display during Morocco’s semi-final clash against France. As Kylian Mbappe broke free on the left flank, Amrabat matched the Frenchman for pace and pulled off a superb last-ditch challenge to help keep the score at 1-0.

“That is absolutely brilliant,” said Neville. “Firstly from Mbappe but then from Amrabat. It was a fearless challenge from Amrabat.”

According to the Independent, Man Utd intend to turn their attention to signing Amrabat once they have wrapped up a deal for Rasmus Hojlund of Atalanta. The 26-year-old is expected to be available for as little as £30m with Liverpool also interested in bringing him in this summer.

However, getting the Hojlund deal over the line is proving to be a difficult task. United have already agreed personal terms with the rising Danish star but negotiations with Atalanta have not gone so smoothly.

Manchester United have reportedly made verbal proposals, which were deemed far too low for the Italian side, who are asking for nearer to £80m for their star striker. The Red Devils are now preparing their official opening offer and are hoping to haggle down the club’s valuation.

But that won’t be easy with PSG joining the race to sign the 20-year-old. According to RMC Sport, PSG have entered into talks with Atalanta and are prepared to offer Hugo Ekitike as part of a swap-deal-plus-cash for Hojlund.

Atalanta are understood to be keen admirers of the 21-year-old and is planning to make an offer for him provided Hojlund leaves the Gewiss Stadium this summer. Hojlund joined Atalanta in 2022 for £14.5m from Austrian side Sturm Graz and has scored 9 goals in 32 appearances in Serie A this season. He also boasts six goals for the Danish national team in as many games.

Atalanta boss Gian Piero Gasperini recently said of Hojlund’s future: “I don’t know if he’s leaving, the market is unpredictable. I hope for the club they get €80m, €90m, €100m. The market value changes. But among the young emerging players in his role, if not the best, he is among the best in Europe.”