Manchester United and FC Barcelona set to fight for FIFA 2022 World Cup star this summer

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Manchester United and Barcelona are set to rival each other for the pursuit of Fiorentina midfielder Sofyan Amrabat this summer, as per rumours.

Amrabat formed an effective midfield partnership with Azzedine Ounahi and was a prominent player for Morocco during their amazing World Cup run, as they became the first-ever African side to reach the semifinals of football's greatest competition.

Since the World Cup, he maintained the same form and has helped La Viola reach the finals of the Coppa Italia and Europa Conference League.

His aggression, physical presence, and defensive work rate proved to be crucial for his side in the middle of the park and it is no surprise that the two top European clubs are ready to acquire him this summer.

Barcelona sought out a loan deal for Amrabat in January but was constrained by Financial Fair Play rules. Amrabat is still a target for the La Liga winners this summer as a potential replacement for the recently departed Sergio Busquets. However, they are still in a financial rut that appears poised to stall a transfer for him once more.

United in the meantime have emerged as another potential club for him. Ten Hag ended the club's trophy drought and led them back to the Champions League, all while improving their playing style and reviving the careers of several players.

The next phase in the process is to increase the squad's quality and depth, and midfield is one position where they need more strength.

The Dutch coach managed four midfielders suffering from long-term injuries during the whole season while lacking a strong replacement for Casemiro, who served three different bans.

Amrabat could be a solid deputy in the squad in that aspect and an upgrade over the likes of Fred and Mctominay. Amrabat's contract is set to expire at the end of next season, so Fiorentina are willing to cash in now to avoid him leaving as a free agent.

He is reportedly valued at around €25million which should be a fair and feasible call for all parties involved.