Donny van de Beek has revealed he was on course to join Real Madrid before sealing his move to Manchester United. Netherlands international van de Beek completed a £40million to Old Trafford from Eredivisie champions Ajax on Wednesday afternoon.
The midfielder has penned a five-year deal with the Red Devils, with the option of a sixth year available to him.
United fended off interest from some of Europe’s big boys to acquire the services of van de Beek, who played a key role in Ajax’s run to the Champions League semi-finals in the 2018-19 season.
Among those reported to be interested in signing the 23-year-old were Spanish champions Real Madrid.
And according to van de Beek, had it not been for certain players staying at the Bernabeu, he would be turning out for Real next season.
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Despite missing out on a move to the Spanish capital, van de Beek insists he’s happy to have joined the Red Devils.
He added: “Manchester United is a dream, of course, a great club, in the strongest league in the world. I didn’t have to think for a second when I got this chance.”
Van de Beek is relishing the new challenge ahead of him, telling United’s official website: “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.
“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.”