Donny van de Beek’s agent has confirmed Arsenal were among the clubs interested in signing the Manchester United-bound midfielder.
Van de Beek is set to become United’s first signing of the summer transfer window after talks with Ajax progressed quickly over the weekend.
The 23-year-old was also on Real Madrid’s radar with agent Sjaak Swart revealing six sides were interested in a summer move including the Gunners – who were unable to come up with the funds to agree a deal.
“Manchester United is certainly the right choice,” he told Ajax Showtime.
“There were more clubs with interest, such as Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, Juventus and Arsenal. There were six in total, but it all came to an end because of the coronavirus.”
Swart suggested Real Madrid were close to agreeing a deal for van de Beek earlier this year, a move that fell through when football came to a standstill.
“It was already a regular matter in March that he would go to Madrid, but because of the virus, all of that has been postponed.
“Clubs have no income, and they could not sell players. Ultimately, Manchester United pushed through, and that is, of course, a very nice club.”
Swart added Arsenal’s interest in the Dutchman was concrete but were unable to meet Ajax’s valuation, with United understood to be paying £40m to bring him to Old Trafford.
“Yes, they really wanted him,” he added.
“But they just couldn’t get the money for a transfer. Even the biggest clubs struggle. Arsenal is a great club, but Manchester United will certainly be an interesting adventure.”
