Donny Van De Beek made his 50th Manchester United appearance last weekend. While the number does look impressive, the Dutchman's story has been far from a happy one at Old Trafford.
He has played a total of 1836 minutes for Manchester United. That averages down to just 36 minutes of game time per match for Van De Beek. In other words, that is close to the equivalent of 20 full matches for the Dutchman.
Numbers do not lie and he has only started 12 of those 50 matches at Manchester United. 15 out of his 38 substitute appearances have lasted less than 10 minutes.
He has lasted the entire match in a Manchester United shirt on only nine occasions, three of them in the Premier League. He has registered two goals and two assists in 50 appearances for the club.
His time at Manchester United has not been a joyful one. There has not been much to cheer about in the last 18 months or so. One can be forgiven for forgetting that this was the same man who scored on his debut as a substitute against Crystal Palace.
His time at United looks all but over given that things continue to deteriorate for the Dutchman at Old Trafford. On that note, let's take a look at the five clubs interested in reviving Donny Van De Beek's career.
#5 - Everton
Everton are pondering over a potential transfer for Donny Van De Beek. The Manchester United midfielder could be brought in on a loan spell from Old Trafford. The Toffees inquired about him last year as well but were turned down by the Red Devils.
However, with the Dutchman still struggling at United, a move maybe on the cards this month. Everton have listed Donny Van De Beek as a potential target but are contemplating other factors before submitting a bid for him.
Everton recently parted ways with head coach Rafa Benitez. They will be aware of getting a new plan in place before making random signings that might not benefit the next man in charge.
#4 - Newcastle United
Newcastle United were bought by billionaire owners last year. However, with the club struggling in their relegation fight, recruitment is the need of the hour. The arrival of Donny Van De Beek can benefit both parties.
Newcastle can ensure survival and the Dutchman can reignite his career and make a mark in England's top-flight football. According to the latest reports, the Magpies have been offered the midfielder on loan for the remainder of the season.
The Dutchman has lost his place in the national squad. He was left out by the Oranje for the last three national meet-ups. With the FIFA 2022 World Cup set to be held later this year, Donny Van De Beek will be eager to seek regular action.
Eddie Howe's team has struggled for creativity in the middle of the park and that is where Donny Van De Beek can excel. Newcastle do have proven goalscorers in their ranks. Adding an attacking midfielder might help them score freely in the Premier League again.
#3 - Arsenal
ESPN has reported that Van De Beek could leave Manchester United to join Arsenal this January due to a personal connection.
The Dutch international arrived at Manchester United for £35 million last summer, but he has yet to show any returns on his investment. His lack of game time has made it even more difficult for Manchester United to be impressed by him.
Van De Beek was a regular in the 2021-22 pre-season but despite being in good shape, he was overlooked when the competitive games began. New Manchester United boss Rangnick has also followed the same path. The German has used the likes of Bruno Fernandes, Scott McTominay, and Fred over the Dutchman at Manchester United.
The midfielder also recently changed agents in order to speed up his process of finding another club.
Arsenal, it would appear, have people in their ranks who have a personal connection with the player. It is being believed the connection might be key to securing a loan move for the Dutchman.
Furthermore, Arsenal have Thomas Partey and Mohamed Elneny on international duty at AFCON. Xhaka is suspended for the next two games, and Ainsley Maitland-Niles has left on loan. It would appear that Van De Beek could be an urgent solution for the Gunners.
Regardless, the final decision may rest with Manchester United, who might not be interested in helping their arch-rivals.
#2 - Bayern Munich
Bayern Munich is also another option for Donny Van De Beek. Bayern midfielder Corentin Tolisso's contract expires at the end of the season and the Bavarians are looking for a replacement.
Reports have stated that Bayern Munich boss Julian Nagelsmann has recommended the club to sign Donny Van De Beek. His current market value stands at £25 million.
#1 - Borussia Dortmund
Manchester United officials are concerned that no club will be willing to pay good money for Van De Beek due to his poor form at Old Trafford. With the player's transfer proving to be a tricky one, the club officials might be planning to use him as an add-on player in a swap deal.
One club which currently interests Manchester United in this regard is Borussia Dortmund. The German side has in their ranks a certain Norwegian forward called Erling Haaland. United are keen to get their hands on him and are willing to offer Van De Beek in a player plus cash deal in exchange for the Norwegian forward.
The German club are said to be open to the idea of signing the Dutchman.
However, United's efforts have not been limited to Dortmund. Club officials have spoken to teams across Europe for Van de Beek.
United are not desperate to part ways with the midfielder this summer and they still believe the Dutchman has the potential to live up to his potential over time. But due to the high costs involved in other transfers, United may end up parting ways with Donny Van De Beek.
With Haaland expected to cost well over £100 million, United are looking for ways to save money this summer and offer Van de Beek as a possible solution.