A source from Holland is confirming the recent reports on Manchester United being close to signing Kevin Strootman. Soccernews.nl claim that Strootman’s agents are discussing a move to Old Trafford with Ed Woodward, and that talks are “at an advanced stage” over a €40 million deal.
Strootman came close to signing for the Red Devils in 2013, but ended up moving to Roma instead, his strong maiden season being cut short by a tragic knee injury, which resurfaced again the following year.
The Gazzetta had reported a few days ago that Inter themselves had a €40 million bid ready for the 27-year-old, who has scored three goals and provided as many assists in Serie A action this season.
Strootman has less than 18 months left in his contract with Roma, and despite months’ worth of negotiations the two sides have yet to find an agreement.The Dutchman has made 32 appearances for his country, scoring three times. His tragic ACL tear kept him away from the 2014 World Cup, where his countrymen went far.
Strootman has scored four goals and provided four assists in 35 appearances in all competitions so far this season, and with his technical quality on the ball combined with his passing, reading of the game and tenacity, he would be a sensible signing by Jose Mourinho to bolster his midfield.
With United needing to replace the likes of Bastian Schweinsteiger and Michael Carrick eventually, Strootman could be a wise addition, but time will tell whether or not their interest is genuine and if negotiations are already underway as suggested by this report.
Roma boss Luciano Spalletti will likely want to keep hold of his midfield ace, but with the money on offer and with a chance to move to the Premier League, it could be a bid too good to turn down for both parties.