Manchester United 'lose out to Real Madrid for Donny van de Beek'

Manchester United have reportedly dropped their interest in Ajax midfielder Donny van de Beek as the Netherlands international is on the verge of agreeing a deal with Real Madrid.

The Red Devils had allegedly identified the 22-year-old as the ideal signing during the January transfer window due to their injury problems in the middle of the park.

However, suggestions that Madrid have won the race for the midfielder have gathered pace in recent days.

According to the Daily Star, United have now admitted defeat in their pursuit of Van de Beek as the Dutchman is set to join Los Blancos in a £47m deal at the end of the 2019-20 campaign.

The midfielder, who impressed in Ajax's run to the semi-finals of last season's Champions League, has scored eight times and registered eight assists in 26 appearances at club level this term.

United continue to be linked with a move for Bruno Fernandes, although it has been claimed that the club will drop their interest if Sporting Lisbon do not lower their asking price.