Manchester United set their condition for agreeing to Mazraoui's departure

Amorim reopens the file

Manchester United face a late decision over the future of Moroccan defender Noussair Mazraoui, with Milan still keen to sign him before the window shuts.

Versatile and reliable, Mazraoui has become a useful figure in the United ranks. He can play full-back or wing-back, and he offers a further option on the right of a back three.

Ruben Amorim's arrival at Milan has changed the picture for the 28-year-old. The Portuguese knows Mazraoui well from their time together at Old Trafford, and once labelled him a "technical" player, a nod to his appreciation of the Moroccan's ability and potential.

CaughtOffside reported: "Milan are studying the possibility of signing Mazraoui, as part of the club's moves to assess their defensive options before the deadline for the closure of the transfer window, although the Italian club's stance on the deal has seen several changes throughout the summer transfer period."

Mazraoui has switched to the "Panthera" agency to handle his representation this window, a move that may hint at a desire to leave United and quit Old Trafford.

Amorim still admires the Moroccan's qualities. Milan's interest cooled at one point, though, after a delay to the exit of another defender they had factored into their plans.

United, for their part, face no contractual pressure to sell. Mazraoui joined from Bayern Munich in August 2024 and has since shown he can fill more than one role across the back line.

His deal runs until 2028, handing the English club a strong hand in any talks over his departure.

Manchester United will not accept a weak offer

Mazraoui is exactly the kind of player managers like to keep, even when a starting spot isn't guaranteed.

That tactical flexibility gives United valuable cover in more than one defensive position, something that could prove crucial over a long season packed with fixtures, injuries and suspensions.

For the player, a move to Milan makes sense. Amorim knows his potential well and could hand him a clearer role within his preferred system.

United, though, look unlikely to sanction a departure on the cheap. There is no pressing reason to let him go.

With two years left on his deal and the ability to cover several defensive roles, any exit would have to command a fee big enough to let United bring in a proper replacement.