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.