Manchester United loanee, Donny van de Beek, is set to return to Old Trafford this summer as Eintracht Frankfurt reportedly have no plans of signing him permanently. Despite his efforts, the former Ajax starlet has struggled to make a significant impact at the Red Devils and subsequently joined the 2021-22 Europa League champions for the remainder of the season in January.
Since his arrival in Germany, Van de Beek has made five appearances in Bundesliga matches for Frankfurt - starting four of those games. However, he is yet to score a goal or provide an assist and hasn't completed a full 90-minute game in top-flight football.
The longest stint that Van de Beek had on field was against Wolfsburg on February 25th where he was substituted in the 67th minute. He remained benched during last weekend's victory over Heidenheim. Furthermore, he was excluded from Frankfurt's squad for Champions League group stages which saw Die Adler lose 3-2 on aggregate against Union SG.
Van De Beek hasn’t been able to adapt to German football
Frankfurt had negotiated a £12.5m option-to-buy clause in Van de Beek’s loan agreement with Manchester United but due to his continued struggles on-field, they currently do not plan on exercising that option.
While there might still be some hope left for Van De Beek staying in Bundesliga as he still has time until summer transfer window opens up again; it seems more likely that he will be heading back home soon enough unless things change drastically under manager Dino Toppmoller’s supervision.
Van De Beek’s contract with Erik ten Hag’s side runs until summer of 2025 and there were hopes that he could reignite his career under the Dutchman following their successful stint together at Ajax. However, after failing to win over Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Ralf Rangnick, his fortunes have not improved with Ten Hag at the helm.
Van De Beek all but certain to leave in summer permanently
The Red Devils reportedly plans to part ways with Van de Beek permanently this summer before they lose him on a free in 2025. The most likely escape route for him seems to be a return to the Eredivisie.
The Red Devils had spent £33.2m in summer of 2020 to bring Van de Beek into their ranks but he has only managed two goals and two assists in 62 games across all competitions for the club.
Van De Beek’s future isn't the only one up in air at Old Trafford. Casemiro and Christian Eriksen, both of whom have seen a drop-off in performance this year, are also uncertain about their futures. Casemiro is expected to attract interest from Saudi Arabia while Eriksen was reportedly wanted by Galatasaray over winter and is due become free agent by 2025 like Scott McTominay.
This summer could see significant changes within Manchester United's midfield as they look towards restructuring their squad for better performances ahead.
