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Manchester United are reportedly closing in on the signing of Adrien Rabiot, who Liverpool are also interested in. The French midfielder is a free agent after leaving Serie A giants Juventus and looks to be headed for the Premier League.
Reliable French journalist Romain Collet-Gaudin reports that the Red Devils have surged ahead of their arch-rivals in the race to sign Rabiot. The 48-cap France international is 'getting closer' to the Old Trafford giants.
Rabiot, 29, prefers Manchester United over Liverpool, and his entourage is in talks with two Premier League heavyweights. He was close to joining Erik ten Hag's Reds two years ago, but a move collapsed, and he remained at Juve.
The Frenchman was a prominent member of the Old Lady's side last season, registering five goals and three assists in 35 games across competitions. He's also been a regular starter under Didier Deschamps for France, playing five of six games at Euro 2024.
Manchester United appear keen to sign Rabiot on a free transfer to help rebuild their midfield. The move comes amid INEOS' intention to overhaul Ten Hag's squad, with doubts growing over Casemiro and Scott McTominay's futures at Old Trafford.
Liverpool have been linked with Rabiot but look to have fallen behind their rivals. Arne Slot is overseeing his first summer transfer window in charge at Anfield but the Merseysiders are yet to make a signing.
Manchester United target Adrien Rabiot's idol is Liverpool icon Steven Gerrard
Rabiot may prefer a move to Manchester United over Liverpool, but his all-time idol is Anfield hero Steven Gerrard. The Frenchman touched on the former England captain's playing style, his habit of scoring incredible goals, and his defensive abilities. He told DAZN:
"My idol is Steven Gerrard, a box-to-box midfielder capable of scoring by shooting from thirty meters and then sliding to defend his goal. At the time he was already a modern player."
Gerrard is arguably the greatest player in Liverpool's history. He was a rock in midfield for 17 years at senior level. Their former captain made 710 appearances across competitions, registering 186 goals and 155 assists. He won 11 major trophies at Anfield, including the 2006 Champions League.
Rabiot must put his admiration for Gerrard aside if he arrives at Manchester United. The Red Devils have legendary midfielders, including Paul Scholes, Roy Keane, and Bryan Robson, who wowed during their playing days.
