Transfer Talk: Donny's volley hands prospects of Man Utd exit a boost

Donny van de Beek has provided Manchester United with a timely reminder of his qualities in pre-season.

The Dutchman volleyed home the Red Devils' winning goal on Wednesday in a 1-0 victory against Lyon. 

It was the midfielder's first game in six months as he looks to rebuild his career after suffering a torrid time at Old Trafford. 

Ahead of the new season, we take a look at what the future holds for Van de Beek as he looks for a move away from United. 

Goal relief

After his winning goal against Lyon, Van de Beek was candid about his future. 

He said: "It is hard to say where my future is. I am coming back from injury. I have trained for a few weeks now and I have played my first minutes today. 

"I am fit but I still need to keep going and try to push as hard as possible. Let's see what happens. There is also the possibility that I move. Everything is open." 

Van de Beek's goal was a reminder of the talent he possesses. In his first appearance since January, he arrived late into the box before volleying home Daniel Gore's cross. 

His roar of celebration was a sign of the frustration that he has faced at United. 

He added: "For me personally it is a big moment. Of course it is nice if you score a goal but people who have experienced such a big injury will know I have waited so long for this moment. 

"I know it is only a friendly but it is a massive moment for me. You realise you enjoy football so much." 

Injury problems

Van de Beek has failed to established himself in the Premier League during three seasons at United which includes a loan spell at Everton. 

The Netherlands international arrived in England with a reputation as being a goalscoring midfielder at former club Ajax. 

Yet his time at United and the Toffees has only seen Van de Beek find the net three times from 67 appearances. 

Many of his appearances have come from the bench, while fitness issues have made it difficult for him to establish himself. 

That was certainly the case after a January loan move to Goodison Park in 2022 that was quickly disrupted by a thigh injury. 

Last season saw the 26-year-old back under Erik ten Hag's wing but he missed several weeks with a knock before a knee problem ruled him out for the season after just 10 appearances. 

Celtic interest

At this stage of his career, it would seem imperative that Van de Beek finds a club where he would be a regular starter. 

The difficulty is that with two years remaining on his contract, United will be looking to recoup some of the initial £35million fee that they paid in 2020. 

Given his relatively large wages and injury record, a loan deal could end up being a more realistic option. 

Celtic have been linked with a move in recent weeks, while a return to Ajax has also been mooted. 

If he can continue his pre-season form, finding a new home could give Van de Beek a chance of gatecrashing the Netherlands' Euro 2024 party.