It's been a slow start to the summer for Manchester United.After securing a third place finish in the Premier League last term and reaching the Europa League semi-finals, it seemed that the Red Devils would be looking to kick on in the transfer market.Unfortunately that hasn't happened just yet.For Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side to return to the Champions League is a huge deal, and that means that they'll once again be dining at Europe's top table and taking their pick of the worlds' best players.Of course speculation has heavily linked them with a move for players such as Jadon Sancho, but nothing has yet been agreed.This, of course, is a source of huge frustration to United fans.That said, it seems that a breakthrough could be on the cards.Reports have claimed that Man United are closing in on a deal for Donny Van de Beek.p1eh1ve3nl1l1e1kn212sr10laeui9.jpgThe Ajax star could complete a £40million move to Old Trafford as the Manchester side close in on their first signing of the summer.While this is undoubtedly an exciting move, there are questions marks over whether United need another central midfielder.Reinforcements in attacking areas seem to have been the priority so far this summer, meaning that an extra face in midfield may not be the wisest use of the club's finances.However according to Adam Crafton of The Athletic, this is a move that could see United move one step closer to competing with their rivals, Manchester City.

Crafton tweeted: "(I) can’t understand why people wondering whether Manchester United ‘need’ Van De Beek.

"City have Mahrez, Foden, Bernardo, Jesus on bench some games.

"That’s what they have to match. Anyway, deal not completed but edging there tonight."

GIVEMESPORT'S Phil Spencer says...

This looks like it could be a fantastic deal for Manchester United.

Donny Van de Beek is a player who is capable of being one of the best in the world.

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At 23 years of age the Dutch maestro still has his best years ahead of him and that means that Solskjaer's side could benefit by developing the player into a genuine world class talent.

While some will suggest that the club need to prioritise other areas, it's crucial that United strengthen all over if they're to compete on all fronts next term.

This doesn't mean that a move for an attacking player will not be a priority - far from it.

But this does represent a deal that will certainly move the club forward and help them to add an extra, more creative presence to their midfield.