Manchester United have officially announced the acquisition of Moroccan midfielder Sofyan Amrabat, securing him on a preliminary loan agreement from Fiorentina for the 2023-24 season.
The 27-year-old had been the centre of extensive transfer rumours over the summer, attracting interest from various clubs. However, Amrabat sat out Fiorentina’s early-season matches, fuelling speculation that he had set his sights on a move to Old Trafford.
United have now rubber-stamped the loan arrangement for the Moroccan international, while also retaining an option to make the deal permanent next summer. Financially, the loan is said to cost Erik ten Hag’s outfit €10m (£8.6m). Furthermore, a buy-out clause valued at €20m (£17.1m) plus €5m (£4.3m) in performance-related add-ons has been included for the end of the campaign.
Upon the formalisation of the deal, Amrabat stated, “It is a huge honour to become a Manchester United player. I’ve had to be patient for this moment but I’m someone who always listens to my heart and now I am representing the club of my dreams.”
“I am a passionate player; I want to bring that energy to the squad, and I will put everything into every action I take for the team. I know exactly how Erik ten Hag likes to work and what he needs from his players. His coaching and guidance developed me so much as a player earlier in my career. I know that he will help to bring out the best of my abilities so that I can help the group to be successful this season.”
John Murtough, Manchester United’s Director of Football, remarked, “We have tracked Sofyan for a long time, so we are really pleased to bring him to Manchester United. His committed, high-energy approach to the game fits perfectly with the group that we are building here. We know that Sofyan’s mentality, dynamism and technical qualities will help the squad as we look to achieve success in all competitions this season.”
During his time with Fiorentina, Amrabat clocked up 107 appearances across all competitions, featuring 49 times last season alone. His performances aided the Italian club in reaching the Coppa Italia and Europa Conference League finals. He also shone for Morocco in the 2022 World Cup, contributing significantly to their journey to the semi-finals.
The addition of Amrabat rounds off an eventful deadline day for the Red Devils, who have also welcomed Altay Bayindir, Sergio Reguilon, and Jonny Evans to the squad as the transfer window draws to a close.
