Van de Beek in line for Man Utd start against Watford

It was the charm offensive by Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer which convinced Donny van de Beek to make the move to Old Trafford.

The Dutchman has made just four Premier League starts since his arrival at Old Trafford in October 2020.

However, the Telegraph says Van de Beek was "struck" by how much Solskjaer knew about his career, background and family when the two met to discuss the transfer.

The Norwegian is believed to have first identified the former Ajax talent in December 2015 when he scored against his Molde team in the Europa League.

Solskjaer's attention to detail is thought to have persuaded Van de Beek to agree to the reported £39million transfer - yet the move hasn't turned out as hoped.

Solskjaer is reportedly planning on giving Van de Beek his first league start of the season against Watford on Saturday afternoon.

The game is believed to be the player's last chance to prove himself at United with a January exit looming if he doesn't break into the team before.