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Man Utd get surprise €25m transfer confirmation after 'aggressive' swoop
Tom Weber
- Updated: 4 Feb 2026 10:07 GMT
- 4 min read
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Manchester United have been beaten to the signing of Stade Reims youngster Patrick Zabi by Paris FC, according to French media.
The Ivorian has established himself as one of the outstanding prospects in Ligue 2 following Reims relegation last season. Zabi has made 21 appearances across all competitions this term, chipping in with two goals and three assists from midfield.
His style of play has earned him comparisons to none other than Paul Pogba. Accordingly, Man Utd showed an interest in the 19-year-old in January in the hopes that history could repeat itself.
In recent days, links also emerged with Newcastle, illustrating that Zabi was garnering increasing attention in the industry. However, English clubs are set to be disappointed for the time being, as a deal has already been wrapped up.
According to L'Equipe, Paris FC have secretly won the race for the teenager, although their pursuit of him was anything but inconspicuous. On the contrary, the Red Bull and Arnault family-backed club were exceedingly "aggressive" in their courtship of the player.
Paris FC agree Zabi deal
Man Utd were late to the party for Zabi. When links first emerged in mid-January, PFC had already been trying to sign the midfielder for weeks. Several bids were lodged, but Reims insisted on a guaranteed package of €25 million.
After plenty of back and forth, PFC have decided to cough up the money. However, Zabi will only arrive in the capital in the summer, which is why the deal may not be officially announced for a few more days still.
"Multiple sources" have confirmed to L'Equipe that Zabi has given the green light to a move to Paris. Red Bull's Head of Global Soccer Jurgen Klopp is known to have spoken to the youngster, which will surely have influenced his decision.
Zabi is a statement signing from PFC, whose first season back in Ligue 1 is not quite going to plan. Despite an ambitious approach to the market and unlimited funds, the promoted side only sit 14th in the table.
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