Man Utd star snubs late blockbuster winter transfer

Christian Eriksen is happy to remain at Manchester United despite interest from Galatasaray, according to a report.

The Danish maestro has lost his place in Erik ten Hag’s Man Utd side, not least due to the spectacular emergence of young Kobbie Mainoo, with the 18-year-old quickly becoming undroppable in the Dutchman’s midfield. Eriksen’s game time has suffered as a result.

Indeed, because of this, Galatasaray were said to be plotting a late swoop for the 31-year-old, with the Super Lig transfer window still open until February 9th. It had been asserted in Turkish media that talks over a loan with an option to buy in the summer were ongoing in “great secrecy” and that Eriksen would jet off for Istanbul immediately if a deal were to be struck.

Had the two sides failed to come to an agreement this month, there would reportedly have been a gentlemen’s pact in the summer, essentially giving Galatasaray a right of first refusal on the veteran. With the title race in Turkey being exceptionally tight, Gala are trying to beef up their midfield for the run-in, but it seems that they will be disappointed.

Eriksen to stay

That’s at least according to Sky Sports, which asserts that Eriksen is “happy at United and focused on the rest of the campaign.” The Dane will not depart the club this month and will instead continue to be at Ten Hag’s disposal, having made 19 appearances in all competitions thus far this term.

Additionally, the above-mentioned report describes Galatasaray’s interest in the former Spurs man as merely “tentative,” casting doubt on Turkish media’s claims regarding any “secret” negotiations. The Istanbul giants are, however, very keen indeed on Celtic’s Matt O’Riley, though he is outside of their budget.

Eriksen is still under contract at Old Trafford until 2025, so the Red Devils would have to cash in on him in the summer if they want to turn a profit on the 31-year-old. The Dane arrived in the summer of 2022 for nothing from Brentford.