Donny van de Beek 'prefers Real Madrid move to Manchester United'

Ajax midfielder Donny van de Beek is holding out for a move to Real Madrid despite reported interest from Manchester United, according to former Netherlands forward Ronald de Boer.

Van de Beek has supposedly emerged as a leading target for United ahead of next season, with a recent report suggesting that the Red Devils are prioritising a deal for the 23-year-old this summer.

However, de Boer suggests that Van de Beek dreams of a move to the Spanish capital, but Real are having to reassess their transfer strategy ahead of a window likely to be heavily impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.

Speaking to Fox Sports, De Boer said: "When you hear these clubs pass by, I know your heart will beat faster. On the one hand, I understand that Real Madrid are hesitating a bit.

"Another club could think 'hey, an interesting player, maybe we can get him for a little less'. For example Manchester United."

Van de Beek, who could reportedly be available for a reasonable figure of £40m, registered eight goals and six assists for Ajax in the 2019-20 Eredivisie campaign.