hero Charlie Nicholas has tipped for a ‘major’ role under Erik ten Hag next season and urged to complete a deal for Frenkie de Jong.
Much was expected of Van de Beek after he completed a £40m move from in the summer of 2020, but the Dutchman has barely featured for the Red Devils and was sent on loan to Everton in January.
Toffees boss Frank Lampard backed Van de Beek to show his class at Goodison Park but the 25-year-old only started five league games and struggled to make an impact.
Van de Beek was being linked with a permanent move away from Old Trafford earlier in the year but the arrival of his former Ajax coach Ten Hag may have given him renewed hope as he prepares to return to United.
Under Ten Hag, Van de Beek thrived for Ajax and helped the Dutch side win the Eredivisie title and reach the semi-finals of the Champions League.
Former Arsenal striker Nicholas told : ‘Donny van de Beek is going to be involved at Manchester United next season.
‘Bruno Fernandes has done pretty well and has been one of their best players in the last couple of seasons, there’s no doubt about that, however he is a bit sulky and temperamental.
‘One of my favourite positions is midfield runners. Players that run beyond the striker and don’t always need to take the ball to their feet.
‘They’re great options for a team and it gives them something different. Van de Beek had that at Ajax, and I’d be amazed if he’s not a major part of what the new manager wants at Manchester United.’
Nicholas has also urged United to wrap up a deal for Barcelona midfielder De Jong, who Ten Hag wants to bring to Old Trafford.
It was reported last week that Barcelona had rejected United’s opener bid for De Jong and want around £85m to part ways with the Netherlands international.
‘If Manchester United can get Frenkie De Jong, that would be a wonderful signing for them,’ Nicholas added.
‘I think that kid is a lovely footballer and would fit in in the Premier League, no problem.’
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