Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot is reportedly ‘waiting for Manchester United’ before making a decision over his future, according to Tuttosport.
The France international has been a long-term target for the Red Devils and he was very close to joining the club from the Bianconeri in 2022.
The club agreed a deal worth £15 million, but the transfer broke down at the final hurdle following a disagreement over personal terms.
Rabiot wanted a salary in the region of £8.5m per season with his mother and representative Veronique receiving a similar figure as commission for the transfer.
United refused to meet his demands and signed Casemiro from Real Madrid for a significantly higher transfer fee and wages.
Rabiot’s current deal with Juventus expires on June 30 and the midfielder has yet to confirm whether he will continue with the Bianconeri.
Talks between Juventus and Rabiot’s mother have been cordial about a possible renewal but the World Cup finalist is making the Serie A club wait for him.
The Frenchman, who was described as ‘extraordinary‘ by David Trezequet in 2022, is awaiting fresh interest from United, but there has been no news so far.
United should not return for Rabiot
Rabiot, who is valued at £30 million by Transfermarkt, was considered dispensable by Juventus in 2022, but he stayed with them.
It has proved a blessing in disguise. He has made 25 goal contributions from central midfield for the Bianconeri over the last two seasons.
The Turin giants are determined to keep him, but Rabiot is exploring his options. He is hopeful of fresh interest from United.
United manager Erik ten Hag personally spoke with Rabiot to convince him about a transfer in 2022, but a deal is unlikely to happen now.
The Red Devils are currently under control of Sir Jim Ratcliffe after his minority takeover and he is unlikely to sanction a free transfer for Rabiot.
The 29-year-old could make the same salary demand (£163,000 per week). There would be a huge signing-on fee and agent commission.
United could end up spending £20m for a Bosman deal. They should stay away from Rabiot, who could be past his prime in the next couple of years.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com.
