Edwin van der Sar pens open letter to Man Utd fans after Donny van de Beek deal

Manchester United legend Edwin van der Sar has penned a classy message to Red Devils fans after Donny van de Beek sealed his move to Old Trafford.

United announced the signing of the Netherlands international in a £40million deal from Ajax on Wednesday night, after making a breakthrough in negotiations over the weekend.

Having joined Ajax at the age of 11, Van de Beek scored 41 goals and provided 34 assists in 175 appearances in all competitions and helped them win the Dutch league title in 2018-19.

And when the midfielder makes his debut, he will become the 13th different Dutchman to have played for the Premier League giants; meaning the Netherlands will officially become the most-represented overseas nation in the club’s history

Indeed, the big-money arrival is something which pleases Ajax chief Van der Sar, who wrote a heartfelt open letter in Thursday’s Manchester Evening News.

“Dear Manchester United fans, I hope you’re doing well,” said Van der Sar.

“It seems our paths have crossed again. One of ours is joining you this season. And like so many players before him, he’s been with us since he was just a little boy.

“Shortly after his debut, he became one of our best. Especially the last couple of years were amazing. From the Europa League final (no hard feelings) to our Champions League run and winning the Dutch championship.

“The team he was part of showed the world who we are and what Ajax stand for.

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“Like you, we pride ourselves on being one of the best at developing talent and giving young players a shot at the highest level. You could say your new star is the embodiment of that pride.

“That’s one of the many reasons we don’t like to see him leave, but we understand it’s time for him to move on. To dream on.

“And where better to do so than in your theatre. Trust me, I know. Please take good care of Donny, and help him dream.

“Enjoy the future.”