Leeds are reportedly closing in on the £12m signing of Norwich defender Max Aarons but it could have been very different for him – with Rio Ferdinand backing him to be a success at Manchester United last summer, amid reports.
Aarons, 23, has been continuously linked with moves away from Norwich. Bayern Munich were even among those interested in recent years, eyeing a £35m move in 2021 – as per Sky Sports. But now it looks as if he is off to Leeds.
A reunion with the man that gave him his professional debut in Daniel Farke, back in August 2018. He has gone on to play 213 times for Norwich, and 23 times for England’s U21 side – with Charlie Cresswell at this summer’s Euros.
Literally 12 months ago, though, Aarons was linked with Manchester United. The Sun say Erik ten Hag’s side, along with the likes of Arsenal, were looking at a £20m move for Aarons last summer. Ferdinand backed him to impress.
“Max Aarons; could be a Chris Smalling-type signing,” he told his Vibe with FIVE YouTube show. “They may not be starters immediately but they stay for 10 years, have a really good career and impact the club at different levels.”
Leeds close in on Aarons: Ferdinand backed Manchester United success
It is a surprise that Aarons has remained at Norwich as long as he has. Tottenham, Bayern, Arsenal, Manchester United and plenty more European institutions have been linked with the English right-back over the last few years.
So, for Leeds to get him is a wonderful bit of business. For Norwich to sell to Farke, and to Leeds as a Championship rival is also surprising. A bargain at £12m – a long-term replacement for Luke Ayling. A shock, but a welcome one.
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