Transfer guru delivers final verdict on United’s left-back pursuit as Villa declare Dutchman ‘untouchable’

Manchester United have made attempts to sign Aston Villa defender Ian Maatsen, but Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that a definitive decision has been reached – the 24-year-old will not be leaving Villa Park this summer.

United are in the market for a new left-back before the summer transfer window closes, and could also pursue a striker if Joshua Zirkzee departs. The Dutch forward has already rejected a move to Fiorentina, though Juventus remain interested and have offered €2.5m for a loan deal with an option to buy at season’s end worth €30m.

However, it is the left-back position where United can strengthen without first needing to offload a player. Over the weekend, journalist Pete O’Rourke broke the news of United making an enquiry into signing Maatsen from Aston Villa. Sky Sports reporter Danyal Khan then suggested Villa would not part ways with the Dutchman, instead planning to offer him a new contract.

On Monday lunchtime, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano delivered the final verdict. Despite confirming United had explored a move, Romano wrote: “Aston Villa consider Ian Maatsen as key player; untouchable and he will not be sold this summer. Manchester United were among clubs interested but #AVFC will not sell Maatsen. Decision made.”

United are also not expected to sign Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde, with the 22-year-old desperate to remain at the Camp Nou. Looking further ahead, Ben Jacobs has claimed United have Lewis Hall’s “buy in”, with a potential deal possible in the summer of 2027. As such, it remains possible that United do not sign a new left-back over the next 36 hours before the deadline.