August 4,2022

Manchester United head coach Erik ten Hag has reportedly been blocked from signing Chelsea attacker Hakim Ziyech during this summer’s transfer window by senior figures at the club.

Ten Hag worked with Ziyech at Ajax between 2017 and 2020, and there have been claims that the new Red Devils manager is keen on a reunion with the Morocco international at Old Trafford.

According to French journalist Nabil Djellit, there is genuine interest from Ten Hag in Ziyech, with the Dutchman viewing the attacker as one of his transfer ‘priorities

However, the report claims that Man United chiefs have blocked the move, as they have reservations over a deal for the 29-year-old, who is seemingly free to leave Stamford Bridge this summer.

Ziyech joined Chelsea from Ajax in July 2020, and he has represented the Blues on 83 occasions in all competitions, contributing 14 goals and 10 assists in the process

Ziyech featured made 44 appearances for Tuchel’s side last season, scoring eight times and providing six assists, but he has largely struggled to show his best form since arriving at the club.

“The Ziyech move to AC Milan has stuttered a little and if that situation drags on let’s not rule out the idea that Ten Hag looks to take him to United instead,” transfer insider Dean Jones told GIVEMESPORT last month.

The Moroccan has won the Champions League, UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup during his time at Chelsea, while he still has another three years left to run on his contract at Stamford Bridge.

Man United are said to be planning to sign at least one attacker before the end of the transfer window, but they appear to have been priced out of a move for Ajax’s Antony.

Ten Hag’s side are also in the market for a centre-forward, with Red Bull Salzburg’s Benjamin Sesko currently being linked with a switch to Old Trafford

Man United have made three signings during this summer’s transfer window, bringing in Tyrell Malacia, Christian Eriksen and Lisandro Martinez.

However, the last month has been dominated by the speculation surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo‘s future, with the Portugal international pushing to leave the Red Devils before the end of the transfer window.

Man United concluded their preparations for the 2022-23 campaign with a 1-1 draw against Rayo Vallecano last Sunday, little over 24 hours after losing 1-0 to Atletico Madrid in Oslo.

The Red Devils will begin their new league season at home to Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday, while they will also take on Brentford, Liverpool and Southampton in the opening month of the campaign.