La Liga giants Sevilla have no plans to sign Manchester United star Hannibal Mejbri on a permanent basis at the end of the current season, according to Spanish outlet Estadio Deportivo.
The Tunisian star, who joined the La Liga team on loan in the last transfer window, has a €18 million buyout option as part of his contract.
Despite initial expectations that the 21-year-old will be a vital player for his new club, he has fallen short of expectations, accumulating only 38 minutes of gametime across two appearances for the Spanish club.
The real reason behind Sevilla turning their back on this deal?
Estadio Deportivo have now disclosed that Sevilla are more concerned by Mejbri’s behavior than his football skills, with manager Quique Sanchez Flores clearly expressing his views on this matter.
Unless there is a miraculous change in circumstances, it appears likely that the African player will return to Old Trafford following the conclusion of his loan period.
Man United are facing financial pressure and aims to generate funds through player sales this summer to address Financial Fair Play (FFP) concerns. Mejbri is identified as one of the academy graduates expected to depart.
The decision by Sevilla not to secure him permanently would be detrimental to United’s financial goals, as the club aims to balance its books by June 30.
The player’s sale is seen as a means to achieve pure profit in the context of FFP.
Should Mejbri return to Old Trafford, the club would need to seek new buyers.
Could Everton be a future destination for Mejbri?
Everton had expressed interest in signing the midfielder in the previous month, but there’s no assurance they will pursue him again.
If they decide to do so, the Toffees might leverage United’s demands to negotiate a lower transfer fee.
Mejbri could reject the move, especially if Everton faces relegation from the Premier League.
United face a complex situation in this transfer, and the newly appointed management under Sir Jim Ratcliffe is hopeful that the midfielder can reverse his fortunes during his time at Sevilla.
