Manchester United will hold talks this week to bring Mitchell Van der Gaag to Old Trafford alongside Erik ten Hag, according to Fabrizio Romano.
THE LOWDOWN: TEN HAG AGREEMENT
The Red Devils are edging closer to a deal for Ten Hag after holding positive talks with the Dutchman last month.
Romano revealed on Monday that an agreement regarding a contract was set to be completed, adding his famous ‘here we go’ phrase to his Twitter post.
The transfer expert said then that Van der Gaag was the ‘priority candidate’ for Ten Hag’s coaching staff, and it looks as if United chiefs will look to grant that wish over the coming days.
THE LATEST: ROMANO’S UPDATE
Romano provided an update on United’s pursuit of Ten Hag on Monday evening, revealing that an announcement will depend on reaching an agreement with Ajax over a €2m clause.
He also said that ‘talks to appoint Mitchell Van der Gaag as assistant will continue this week’.
THE VERDICT: FINGERS CROSSED
United need to get everything in place for next season as soon as possible, especially following Tuesday’s 4-0 defeat to Liverpool, which served as an emphatic reminder of how far behind the club currently is.
Getting deals for Ten Hag and Van der Gaag over the line before the end of the season will allow the pair to make a head start on a summer rebuild, with Ralf Rangnick admitting that up to ten signings could be made ahead of the 2022/23 campaign.
A major shake-up is required at Old Trafford, so pushing through a move for Van der Gaag could be crucial for Ten Hag prior to an official United announcement – the last thing they need is a hectic summer of rushed transfer decisions.