Manchester United star Donny van de Beek is 'surplus to requirements' at Old Trafford and could look to secure his departure in January, according to journalist Pete O'Rourke.

The Red Devils spent more than £200million during the summer transfer window, but the new recruits have resulted in van de Beek falling further down the pecking order.

GiveMeSport The Verdict

GiveMeSport The Verdict

What's the latest news involving van de Beek?

Van de Beek returned to Manchester United in the summer, having spent the second half of last season on loan with Premier League rivals Everton.

But the appointment of Erik ten Hag, who he played under 110 times while on Ajax's books, as the Red Devils' boss has not resulted in an upturn in fortunes for the Dutchman at Old Trafford.

Van de Beek has been restricted to just 19 minutes of action since the campaign got underway and is still searching for his first start.

It is understood that ten Hag blocked a summer return to Ajax despite being shocked by the 25-year-old's lack of confidence.

Serie A giants Inter Milan could reportedly offer van de Beek an escape route from the red half of Manchester when the transfer window reopens at the turn of the year.

What has Pete O'Rourke said about van de Beek?

O'Rourke understands that van de Beek is not at the forefront of ten Hag's plans and, as a result, a winter move away from Manchester United may be on the cards.

The journalist feels the central midfielder is in for a difficult season if he fails to move on or work his way up the Old Trafford pecking order.

O'Rourke told GIVEMESPORT: "He finds himself sort of surplus to requirements at Manchester United right now and it's going to be interesting to see what happens with van de Beek in January.

"Will he look to move on in search of regular first-team football or will he get more opportunities in the Manchester United team?

"But, right now, it does seem like it's going to be a tough, long season ahead for van de Beek if the opportunities aren't going to be given to him by ten Hag."

Should Manchester United cash-in on van de Beek in January?

Manchester United sealed van de Beek's arrival in a deal worth up to £40million two years ago and it is safe to say that his time in the Premier League has not gone to plan.

He has only racked up two goals and as many assists in 53 Red Devils appearances, which is an underwhelming return considering his figures at Ajax.

But ten Hag is convinced that van de Beek is still capable of playing a key role for Manchester United, so perhaps the club should stave off interest when the transfer window reopens.

The Europa League could offer the 19-cap Netherlands international the perfect platform to build confidence.

Read more: Europa League 2022/23: Fixtures, Group Stage Draw, Dates, Schedule, Final, Teams and Everything We Know So Far