Manchester United will complete the sale of Memphis Depay to Lyon within 48 hours, according to reports.
According to the Mirror, Lyon have returned with an improved offer for the winger after seeing an initial bid of £13m rejected by the Red Devils, and United are now willing to do business and facilitate a quick sale of the Dutchman.
Reports emerged last week that Paris Saint-Germain had also joined the race for Depay, with their director of football Patrick Kluivert said to be a big fan of his compatriot. However, if the Mirror are to be believed, Lyon will finally seal a deal for Depay.
Depay only joined United last season from PSV in a £25m deal with then-manager Louis van Gaal admitting that he was “forced” into signing the 22-year old after PSG attempted to sign him. Depay was given the coveted No. 7 jersey at United and many expected him to be an instant success.
However, he eventually struggled to find playing time under van Gaal and things have only gotten worse under Jose Mourinho. Depay has only managed 7 substitute appearances in the English Premier League and Europa League this season, and has only played a total of 79 minutes of football in those appearances.
Depay’s failure at United will be a huge surprise to many, after he was touted to become one of the best players in the world by several high-profile figures in the sport including Marco van Basten, Guus Hiddink and Arjen Robben.
A move to Lyon could be just what he needs, however, as the pressure will be much lower at the French side. United will also recoup a significant part of the £25m they paid for Depay, so it seems like a deal that will suit all the parties involved.
Jose Mourinho is looking to completely rebuild this side after Louis van Gaal made some underwhelming signings as manager. Morgan Schneiderlin has already been sold to Everton. Given Depay’s struggles, it is no surprise that United are looking to quickly sell him on as well and it appears that his United nightmare is finally at an end.
