Rabiot transfer confirmed after mother set the record straight on Man Utd talks

Free agent Adrien Rabiot is on the verge of completing a move to Marseille after Premier League clubs failed to swoop for his signature.

The France midfielder, 29, left Juventus at the end of last season after seeing out his contract and has since been linked with a number of Europe's elite throughout the summer, though said interest failed to advance into anything concrete.

Marseille have now confirmed that an agreement has been reached to bring Rabiot, formerly of Paris Saint-Germain, back to France, with a deal expected to be concluded imminently.

While Rabiot is poised to continue his career in Ligue 1, he has been continuously linked with a move to England over the past 18 months. A number of teams have been credited with an interest in his services, including Manchester United.

The Red Devils are thought to be long-term admirers of Rabiot, who was previously targeted during Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's tenure. He has also been linked with United since Erik ten Hag took the reins back in 2022.

Rabiot's mother and agent, Veronique, confirmed United were keen on bringing the midfielder to Old Trafford two years ago but denied that talks over a potential move were advanced.

She said previously: "All false. United wanted to meet me to illustrate their interest in Adrien, but we never talked about money in detail because he quickly decided to stay in Turin."

There had been speculation in recent weeks that United could still move for Rabiot despite signing Manuel Ugarte from PSG on transfer deadline day. The player was also linked with a return to Juventus, though head coach Thiago Motta played down such talk.

Rabiot's mother also confirmed that her son would not be rejoining Juventus, saying: "There is no need to close the door, returning to Juventus was not an option considered. When we make decisions, we take responsibility for them."

Marseille have already confirmed that Rabiot's move will become official pending a successful medical. They said in a statement over the weekend: "Olympique de Marseille announces that it has reached an agreement in principle with Adrien Rabiot for the arrival of the French international midfielder at the club.

"The player will sign with OM subject to the results of the medical examination."