Ryan Gravenberch on why he rejected late Man United approach

Ten Hag was also keen to sign Gravenberch

Ryan Gravenberch has revealed how - to the surprise of absolutely no one at all - Manchester United made an attempt to sign him before he finalised his transfer to Bayern Munich. Confirmation that the Dutch midfielder has completed a £21m-move to Germany from Ajax came on Monday, but it's now emerged United were also in the frame to sign him. Because... y'know, Ajax. https://twitter.com/FCBayernEN/status/1536392148316311552

Gravenberch had 'given his word' to Bayern

Erik ten Hag knows Gravenberch well having handed him his debut and, according to the player, was keen on a reunion having being unveiled as the new United boss. Speaking to De Telegraaf, Gravenberch said that his old boss, who is believed to be keen to strengthen United's midfield ahead of next season, tentatively sounded out the possibility of him following him to Manchester. The 20-year-old was having none of it though, with discussions over a move to Bayern already at an advanced stage. "Manchester United is a very big and nice club," he said. "But I already had such a good feeling at Bayern and I had them given my word."

Ten Hag continuing De Jong pursuit

Despite Gravenberch's rejection, Ten Hag is believed to be pressing on with attempts to bring another of his former Ajax players, Frenkie de Jong, to Old Trafford. De Jong is a key player at Barcelona but is believed to be open to the idea of a move to United after it appeared increasingly likely the financial turmoil at the Camp Nou may force him out. The 25-year-old was a star performer in the Ten Hag Ajax side that came agonisingly close to reaching the Champions League final in 2019, only for Lucas Moura to shatter their dream. Related links:

• Erik ten Hag ‘convinces’ Frenkie de Jong his future lies at Man United
• Frenkie de Jong: Man United ‘very close’ to agreement with Barcelona
• Man United ‘turned down De Jong and De Ligt’ after scout recommendation