Manchester United had been tentatively linked with Real Madrid's Federico Valverde but the player has now spoken out on his future
Ruben Amorim, manager of Manchester United applauds fans following the Premier League match against West Ham
Ruben Amorim, manager of Manchester United (Image: Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)
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Real Madrid star and rumoured Manchester United target Federico Valverde has emphasised how happy he is at the Bernabeu, all but shutting down any reports of a potential exit.
The midfielder has been a key player for the La Liga giants since his promotion from the reserve team in 2018. The 27-year-old has amassed just shy of 350 appearances across all competitions and won numerous titles in that time, including the league and Champions League.
His versatility has also required him to operate at right-back at times, especially in recent seasons with the absence of Dani Carvajal and the persistent injury concerns surrounding summer signing Trent Alexander-Arnold. However, there has been plenty of speculation in the Spanish media about head coach Xabi Alonso and a perceived lack of trust and backing from members of the playing squad.
News outlet E-Noticies claimed in recent weeks that United are planning a sizeable bid for the midfielder, and that the player is open to the move after a supposed "falling out" with the manager. However, such reports are tentative at best, and a lot would have to happen for the Uruguayan star to leave Madrid.
Valverde himself has now all but shut down any speculation that he is seeking a move away, suggesting there may have been little truth in the rumours to begin with. He still has more than three years remaining on the deal he signed back in 2023, so no move appears imminent or likely.
Federico Valverde
Federico Valverde has been linked with a move to the Premier League
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"I'm very happy to be part of this team," the player himself declared in a recent interview with MARCA. "It's an honour to have these teammates and to keep improving as a team.
"Wearing it [the captain's armband] is fantastic. I try to bring out my best, and in recent matches it’s been difficult not to do so.
"I train to bring out the best in myself. I appreciate the support of my teammates, who always make me smile, and the coaching staff for trusting in me."
It is no secret United are in need of midfield reinforcements. The club were heavily linked with Brighton's Carlos Baleba in the summer transfer window, but a move never materialised as they instead opted to prioritise other positions, and the Seagulls reportedly could not be moved on their asking price, thought to be in excess of £100million.
Baleba remains a name firmly in the headlines ahead of the upcoming January transfer window, while Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson has also been rumoured as a target for both Manchester clubs. Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton is likewise expected to be a man in demand over the next couple of windows.
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