'I love him' - Manchester United dealt fresh midfielder transfer blow

Manchester United have been told Fiorentina plan to hold onto Sofyan Amrabat past the transfer deadline.

Amrabat spent last season on loan at United from Fiorentina after the Reds agreed a €10million (£8.5million) loan fee for the midfielder. The deal also included the option of making the move permanent for a fee worth up to €25million (£21million) including add-ons.

United continue to be in the market for a new midfielder, with Paris Saint-Germain star Manuel Ugarte the club's top target. The Reds had the option to make Amrabat's move permanent but that was not triggered and he returned to Fiorentina after making 30 appearances in all competitions during his loan spell.

A return to Old Trafford has not been ruled as United have until August 30 to complete their transfer business and the Manchester Evening News understands Amrabat is still under consideration. However, the Morocco international's manager at Fiorentina has outlined the determination to keep the player in Italy for this season.

READ MORE: Manchester United might have to take a hit to make a profit with biggest transfer sale

READ MORE: 'That is utopia' - Manchester United plotting first-team debuts after historic academy season

Fiorentina manager Raffaele Palladino has given an update on Amrabat's future and explained why he hopes the former United loanee remains at the club beyond this summer.

"I love him [Amrabat], he's a great guy, we've created a great relationship with him," Palladino told TuttomercatoWeb.

"He's a sincere guy at heart. He sent signals to me and Fiorentina, making himself available from day one.

"The transfer rumours are normal, he's a player of a certain level, he and the club will decide his future. I hope I can still coach him,