Wout Weghorst is ‘close’ to Man Utd’s move, says Erik ten Hag, but not in time for the Manchester derby.football news

Manager Eric Ten Hag says Manchester United are close to signing Wout Weghorst on loan, but he won’t join the club in time for Saturday’s Manchester derby.

United had hoped the Dutch striker would be ready to face Manchester City at lunchtime kick-off at Old Trafford, but Ten Hag said before the game that the deadline was set for Friday at noon. We have confirmed that Weghorst has not been registered by

When asked about the Dutchman, Ten Hag told reporters, “I think we are close.” “But he won’t be out tomorrow. Hopefully he will come soon.”

Weghorst’s move appeared to be one step closer on Friday night when Besiktas confirmed his loan term had ended.

If Anthony Martial recovers in time from his foot problem, United will again have limited forward options.

One player who will definitely be missing is Donny van de Beek, who Ten Hag has confirmed will miss the rest of the season due to injury.

“Long-term, I think he’ll be back for the start of preseason,” he said. “He will be out for the rest of the season.

“I think everyone thinks of him. It sucks to have a bad tackle or a bad injury in the season. It’s always really disappointing and my thoughts and feelings are with the players. You know that. It’s been really good and I’m glad his knee is doing well in the long run.”

Ten Hag: Casemiro is the best in the world

The Manchester United manager was also asked about the impact of Casemiro’s £60million summer move at Old Trafford.

United have conceded just one goal in six games since domestic football resumed last month. He is one of the reasons that the Brazilian dominated midfield. He also showed his attacking side by scoring an own goal again in a 3–0 win against Bournemouth. January 3rd.

Ten Hag shone with admiration for the 30-year-old, who has already become an integral part of United’s midfield.

“He’s very important,” said the director. “He’s the cement between the stones. His defense, his organization, his anticipation, supporting his players in the right positions, winning the ball for teams and duels.

“But even in possession, he can speed up the game. He has the ability to give top teams.

“There aren’t many players in the world with this quality. He’s one of them, so we’re really happy to have him. He makes a big difference.”

“This period is about positioning to win trophies.”

A win in the Manchester derby would put United one point ahead of City, almost completely squeezing the gap they had built in recent years to 35 points by the end of last season.

Ten Hag denied the importance of the opportunity for his side to get closer to their rivals, instead focusing on United’s positioning in the standings ahead of a relentless second-half season run-in.

“We’re still halfway through the season. It’s the second time we’ve played against Manchester City, but we have a long way to go,” he said.

“This part of the season is about putting yourself in a position where you can win a trophy at the end of the season, so go game by game and don’t look too far ahead.

“I have to prove [our improvement] Tomorrow on the pitch, that’s the only proof. I didn’t do well last time, so I have to do better tomorrow.

“It didn’t happen overnight. It’s been a process. In the last few months we’ve grown and progressed. Now we’re facing a better team. I’m looking forward to it. One of the things One is about spiritual approaches and attitudes.

“We must act with conviction and play the game.”