Ajax youth coach Ronald de Boer has suggested that Manchester United could beat Real Madrid to the signature of Donny van de Beek during this summer's transfer window.

Former United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar, who is Ajax's chief executive, recently revealed that the Red Devils were interested in signing 23-year-old ahead of the 2020-21 campaign.

Madrid have also been strongly linked with the Netherlands international, but De Boer has hinted that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side have the edge in the race for the midfielder.

"When you hear these clubs pass by, I know your heart will beat faster," De Boer told Fox Sports. "If Real Madrid again decide not to report themselves at Donny, then I can understand it if he decides to go to Manchester United instead.

"On the one hand, I understand that Real Madrid are hesitating a bit. Another club could think, 'hey, an interesting player, maybe we can get him for a little less'. For example Manchester United.

"Solskjaer has indicated that he wants to go in a new direction and wants players who are humble, their heart is with the club, a team player. I think he is tired of the Pogbas running around. He wants players like Donny van de Beek."

The Dutchman has been in impressive form at club level during the 2019-20 campaign, scoring 10 times and registering 11 assists in 37 appearances in all competitions.