Manchester United midfielder Sofyan Amrabat’s future at Fiorentina comes with an interesting twist. If Manchester United opts not to exercise their purchase option next summer, Amrabat’s contract with Fiorentina will automatically extend by one year.
The 27-year-old Amrabat had been a subject of transfer speculation linking him to Manchester United for much of the summer. However, the move finally materialized late in the transfer window, with Amrabat initially joining United on loan. While Fiorentina had initially pushed for a mandatory purchase clause, they settled for a purchase option in the final agreement.
Now, an intriguing revelation from Italian outlet Il Tirreno has come to light. Fiorentina has included a secret clause in the deal, ensuring that if Manchester United does not make the transfer permanent, Amrabat’s contract will extend for another year. This strategic move safeguards Amrabat’s market value for Fiorentina.
Manchester United has already paid an £8.5 million loan fee to Fiorentina. To secure Amrabat’s services on a permanent basis, they will need to pay an additional £21.5 million.
Amrabat has a history with Manchester United’s manager, Erik ten Hag. The Dutch coach previously worked with the midfielder at FC Utrecht, where Amrabat rose through the academy ranks and made over 50 appearances before moving to Feyenoord.
After the confirmation of his transfer to Old Trafford, Amrabat expressed his enthusiasm for reuniting with Ten Hag. He highlighted the significant role Ten Hag played in his career, stating, “It was very important because I was very young. I was 18, 19-years-old, and he gave me the chance to play in the first-team with Utrecht. We had a fantastic time, a really good season. I learned a lot from him, so maybe he’s one of the most important people in my career for now.”
Amrabat also praised Ten Hag’s coaching style, emphasizing the coach’s relentless pursuit of victory. “It’s fantastic because I think Erik ten Hag is a coach who will push always to the limit. He’s hungry. He wants to win. He’s a winner, and I like that. I think I’m also similar, I’m also a winner. I want to win every day, so it’s a good match.”