Revealed: How Donny van de Beek’s attitude cost him a move away from Man Utd as Lorient snubbed transfer deadline day deal

The Dutch midfielder was among those expected to head out of Old Trafford during the summer window. No transfer was agreed, though, and the 26-year-old – who has struggled to make any kind of impact in English football – finds himself stuck in Manchester as a result.

Interest was shown in Van de Beek prior to the latest recruitment deadline passing, with Ligue 1 side Lorient making it clear in mid-August that they would be happy to enter into discussions. The Netherlands international refused to speak with the French outfit at that time as he waited on other offers.

According to L’Equipe, Van de Beek’s representatives reached out to Lorient as the window ran down – only to be informed that the invitation had expired. The French outfit are said to have been unimpressed at the Dutchman’s supposed arrogance, as he sought a better deal elsewhere, and refused to rekindle their earlier interest.

Van de Beek is unlikely to see much game time for United before another window opens in January – if he does not secure a switch to Turkey or Saudi Arabia - with Erik ten Hag having continued to overlook him despite the pair having previously worked together at Ajax. The talented playmaker has been restricted to just 60 appearances for the Red Devils in three years.