Sofyan Amrabat absent from Fiorentina friendly squad amid Manchester United interest

Sofyan Amrabat has been left out of the Fiorentina squad to face Newcastle United and Nice this weekend as speculation regarding his future intensifies.

The 26-year-old looks set to leave La Viola this summer amid interest across Europe, following a brilliant World Cup campaign with Morocco and an impressive season at club level. Barcelona and Liverpool have previously been interested, but Manchester United have emerged as front-runners in recent weeks.

Manager Erik ten Hag is open to making further additions once they finalise the £72million signing of Rasmus Hojlund from Atalanta. Midfield remains a point of interest for the Dutchman, who could yet see Fred and Donny van de Beek leave.

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And any pursuit of Amrabat has been boosted by his absence from the squad that will head to St. James' Park this weekend. The decision looks to be transfer related, given the fact he played against Grosseto on Tuesday.

United's interest in the Moroccan is known, however any approach was initially dependent on the departure of Scott McTominay. The Scot now looks set to stay amid fears that Kobbie Mainoo's injury could keep him out for two months.

Speaking to Italian news agency ANSA last week, Amrabat remained coy on his future: "I don't know if I'm leaving… maybe I can stay here at Fiorentina." He added: "I don't know, I could remain."

The combative midfielder played under Ten Hag during the pair's time at FC Utrecht in the Netherlands, and has made no secret of his fond memories under the Dutchman.

Fiorentina will likely demand