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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Darren Wells

Donny van de Beek details first chat with Man Utd boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

Donny van de Beek has detailed his first chat with boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after admitting his relief at sealing his "messy" transfer to Man Utd.

The Dutchman completed his £40million switch from Ajax this week and is now in line to make his debut for the club in their season opener against Crystal Palace in a fortnight's time.

United's acquisition of the midfielder came largely out of the blue despite lengthy negotiations between the clubs.

Real Madrid had been interested in van de Beek previously but failed to make their move as United swooped in, with van de Beek just pleased to get the deal over the line.

"It was very messy this week and quite exciting. Before the international period it began to pick up, the clubs were in talks," he said. "Then the clubs were out, but the medical still had to be done, and some other things.

Donny van de Beek says he is relieved to finally be a Man Utd player (Copyright unknown)

"Ultimately, I am very happy that it is now ready and that we can play football again, because this is quite messy for a player.

"I am very relieved. I have had many congratulations and sweet messages.

"Many great Dutch players have of course played football at Manchester United and I have seen the team play many times over the past season."

Van de Beek has a big challenge ahead of him to work his way into Solskjaer's midfield given the wealth of options at his manager's disposal.

Do you think van de Beek is a good signing for United? Have your say below.

Solskjaer feels the midfielder will bring "something extra" to his side (Getty Images)

Paul Pogba and Bruno Fernandes are almost certain starters, leaving one spot free for one of van de Beek, Fred, Nemanja Matic or Scott McTominay.

But Solskjaer will not have shelled out such a considerable fee for van de Beek to be sat among the substitutes.

"I had a good conversation with the manager which gave me a good feeling," van de Beek added.

"He knew very well what my qualities were and thinks that I can be an important player for the team, that I can give them something extra. I hope it works out."

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