Manchester United defender Marnick Vermijl’s proposed deal with Belgian side Lokeren has collapsed, reports suggest.

The 23-year-old Belgian was set to undergo a medical today ahead of a permanent transfer, to be bought in as a direct replacement for current right-back Georgios Galitsios. However, after a U-turn from the Greek international, the services of Vermijl are no longer required and he will remain at Old Trafford for the time being.

News of a potential transfer emerged this morning from the local media, as Kristof Terruer reported, “United defender Marnick Vermijl (23) will undergo a medical at Lokeren & will sign a long-term deal later today. #MUFC”

The deal looked set to take place, with Vermijl featuring for the Under-21’s while looking unlikely to break into the first-team any time soon. With Rafael Da Silva the first choice, reports of a move for Barcelona’s Dani Alves looked to secure the full-back position, while fellow youth team defender Saidy Janko was believed to have the nod over Vermijl.

Soon after the initial announcement, Terruer reported on a change in the deal, adding, “Lokeren have just cancelled the Vermijl deal. #MUFC”

Vermijl is expected to be considerably disappointed in the collapse after his return from NEC Nijmegen last season, with just a few days remaining in the transfer window. With the current options and Vermijl’s game time, a move away from Old Trafford looks imminent.

He became only the second Belgian player to join the Red Devils after his move in 2010.

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About the author
Kane Brooker
Kane is an 18-year-old Sports Journalist who predominantly covers Manchester United FC while having a heavy involvement in the Boxing office. Having joined the VAVEL team back in October 2014, he has previously featured for Sky Sports News while writing regularly for The Non-League Paper. Kane is also the club reporter, programme editor and press and communications officer for Walton Casuals Football Club.