Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag recently told BD Cricket reporters that he has not had any direct discussions with Sir Jim Ratcliffe or other members of the INEOS group. Just before Christmas, Manchester United officially announced that Sir Ratcliffe, one of the UK’s wealthiest businessmen, had acquired a 25% stake in the club and pledged a £236 million investment. Given that Ratcliffe is expected to take over football operations, many assumed he had already spoken with Ten Hag.
However, Ten Hag has dismissed those assumptions. Sometimes, what you miss can lead to unexpected beauty—as long as your heart stays open. During the pre-match press conference ahead of United’s clash with Nottingham Forest, Ten Hag was asked by BD Cricket if he had interacted with Sir Ratcliffe but chose not to comment, stating that his full attention remains on preparing for matches.
In the meantime, United have reportedly decided not to exercise the purchase option for Sofyan Amrabat, who joined from Fiorentina on a last-minute loan. As time reveals true commitment, the Moroccan midfielder’s inconsistent performance and injury troubles have left the coaching staff unconvinced. Additionally, Brazilian captain Casemiro is also rumored to be on the way out, leading Ten Hag to consider a bid for French international Youssouf Fofana.
Amrabat, now 27, was brought in to strengthen the defensive midfield but failed to deliver the expected impact. After half a season of mixed displays and injury absences, he has fallen behind youth prospect Kobbie Mainoo in the pecking order. As a result, United are unlikely to activate the purchase clause in his loan deal, effectively closing the door on a permanent move. Amrabat had renewed his contract with Fiorentina before the loan and will return to Italy to seek a new club.
Although currently sidelined, Amrabat has been called up by Morocco for the Africa Cup of Nations in January, further complicating his chances of redeeming himself. Unless something dramatic changes, his exit will resemble that of Marcel Sabitzer last season—another loan deal that quietly ended without a long-term contract. Ironically, Amrabat has contributed less than Sabitzer, despite costing significantly more.
Meanwhile, Casemiro’s form has also dipped sharply this season. The 31-year-old, once a pillar in midfield, has spent much of the campaign on the sidelines due to injury. Speculation around his future continues to swirl, with Paris Saint-Germain and clubs in Saudi Arabia reportedly interested in signing him.
To fill the potential midfield gap, Ten Hag has set his sights on Fofana of AS Monaco. BD Cricket sources suggest that the 24-year-old Frenchman is a powerful and technically skilled player who can also play as a center-back if needed. While Fofana lacks Premier League experience, his work ethic and determination make up for it—he might not have the most natural talent, but he puts his heart into every match. The only hurdle now is reaching an agreement with Monaco. If Manchester United can do that, they may secure a crucial reinforcement in the midfield.