Manchester United reportedly had a proposal to swap United States international Weston McKennie for Donny van de Beek rejected by Juventus, a financial investigation into the club has revealed.
McKennie, 24, made his full Premier League debut for Leeds during the 2-2 draw at Old Trafford in midweek and could be set to feature again when the reverse fixture takes place this weekend. Alongside compatriot Tyler Adams, McKennie impressed up against Marcel Sabitzer and Fred in midfield.
The Juventus loanee particularly enjoyed the battle in the midfield, even detailing the 'battle scar' that he received during an interview after the match. McKennie may well have been able to avoid that 'welcome to the Premier League' moment had United got their own way in the transfer market 18 months ago.
READ MORE: United eye surprise move for Adams
Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport report that an August 2021 interception revealed that Juventus 'refused an exchange' to swap McKennie with Van de Beek. The Italian giants were apparently only willing to part with the player for a fee of €50million (£43m or $59m).
Instead, the player stayed in Turin and made 29 appearances across all competitions. McKennie went on to make another 21 outings in Italy during the current campaign, either side of representing the United States at the World Cup, before moving to the Premier League late on during the January transfer window.
Whether United revive any interest in the player this summer remains to be seen. Leeds have the option to purchase the player permanently for a fee of around £30million ($37 million) and are expected the trigger that deal should they avoid relegation, but the club dropping back down to the Championship could open the door of opportunity once again.
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