Koeman breaks his silence on Dembele-Man United transfer links

Ronald Koeman addressed speculation for the first time linking Ousmane Dembele with a surprise switch from Barcelona to Manchester United.

Fitness and disciplinary issues have struck Dembele regularly since his big-money arrival from Borussia Dortmund in 2017, prompting long-term doubts over his Camp Nou future.

The Frenchman’s most recent suitor is understood to be Manchester United. Talks are reportedly underway between the Red Devils and Barca over a deal, with the former hoping to get everything signed on the dotted line soon.

There have been various reports amongst the English and Spanish press, ranging from a €60m transfer agreement to a season-long loan deal.

But one thing that remains consistent among these rumors is that United want Dembele and view him as an alternative for Jadon Sancho.

Now speaking for the first time in a press conference on Wednesday afternoon, Koeman told reporters: “The first thing to say is that it is up to the club and to the player.

“But he is with us and as we’ve seen in recent weeks I am counting on him….he has to wait to play but he is training well, getting fitter”.

The Blaugrana boss added: “I want to say that I am counting on him.”

Dembele is currently preparing for Barcelona’s trip to Celta Vigo in LaLiga on Thursday evening.