Fabrizio Romano plays down Juventus links to Man United’s Mazraoui

While away at the African Cup of Nations, Manchester United’s Noussair Mazraoui has found himself in the middle of transfer speculation.

Mazraoui is currently getting ready to represent Morocco in their AFCON semi-final clash against Nigeria on Wednesday evening.

Should Morocco lose, the full-back could be back in time to play a small role in this weekend’s Manchester derby.

In the lead-up to that game, reports have linked Mazraoui with a move to Juventus as the Italian club looks for reinforcements at right-back.

According to Fabrizio Romano, there hasn’t been anything concrete between Mazraoui and Juventus so far, with United holding onto him following Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s departure.

Fabrizio Romano gives update on Noussair Mazraoui’s transfer situation

United have said there won’t be any new signings this month, but that doesn’t mean departures are off the table before the window shuts.

Romano was quick to address the Mazraoui talk, though, and dismissed the idea of a move happening soon.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano explained: “Mazraoui, we’re getting a lot of questions today, guys, apart from the fact that the player is busy in the Africa Cup of Nations and therefore there’s nothing imminent, nothing concrete, about Mazraoui up to this point.

“Let’s say the same thing we said about Zirkzee is valid, the same thing we said about Kobbie Mainoo is valid. Manchester United is going through a moment of change. I think this is always a bit underestimated when it comes to United.

“It’s easy to name United players, but then signing them means talking to a club undergoing a profound transformation, with just a few weeks of transfer window left and a recent change of manager.”

“Carrick arrived and another will probably arrive in the summer. So United’s idea is to change as little as possible today and then make a major change with a new manager in the summer.”

“So today signing Mazraoui who plays on right or left can be very versatile player. I think it won’t be that simple. We’ll see if Juventus try. We’ll tell you about it here.”

Why Man United need to hold on to Noussair Mazraoui

Diogo Dalot’s form has become a point of concern for many United supporters, and Mazraoui looks like the ideal alternative.

With Manchester United moving back to a four-at-the-back formation, he seems the most natural fit at right-back in the squad. Plus, his ability to play on the left gives him even more value.

Mazraoui also served as part of the leadership group under Ruben Amorim and is considered one of the senior voices within the team.

United can’t afford to lose someone with his mix of talent and mentality. He’s exactly the type of player they should be building around, especially with a new manager expected to come in this summer.