Donny van de Beek has signed a five-year deal with Manchester United (Image: GETTY)
Arsenal were keen on signing Manchester United newboy Donny van de Beek before his move to Old Trafford, the Dutchman's agent Sjaak Swart has claimed. Netherlands international van de Beek completed a £40million transfer from Eredivisie giants Ajax on Wednesday afternoon.
The 23-year-old - who caught the eye of many in Ajax's run to the Champions League semi-finals in the 2018-19 season - has penned a five-year deal with the Red Devils, with the option of a sixth year.
Prior to his move to the Premier League, van de Beek was on the radar of Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona.
But according to Swart, Arsenal were also very keen on acquiring the midfielder's services before the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Manchester United is certainly the right choice,” Swart told Ajax Showtime.
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"Arsenal is a great club, but Manchester United will certainly be an interesting adventure.”
Van de Beek is relishing the new challenge ahead of him, saying: “I cannot begin to explain how incredible an opportunity it is to join a club with such an amazing history.
“I would like to thank everyone at Ajax. I grew up there and I will always have a special bond with the club.
“I am now ready to take the next step in my career and perform at the highest level and there is no higher standard than Manchester United.
Donny van de Beek was wanted by Arsenal before his move to Old Trafford, according to his agent (Image: GETTY)
“Everyone has told me how amazing the Old Trafford atmosphere is and I am looking forward to experiencing that, once it is safe for the fans to return.
“This team has some of the best midfielders in the world and I know that I can learn from them and also bring my own strengths to the group.
“Having spoken to the manager about his vision for this team, the direction that the club is going in is hugely exciting and I cannot wait to be a part of that.”