28 July 2023 , 19:59
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Former Arsenal star Tomas Rosicky has bemoaned the failure to get a deal for Manchester United goalkeeper Matej Kovar over the line.
The ex-midfielder is now sporting director with Czech giants Sparta Prague. He had been attempting to secure a deal for Red Devils academy graduate Matej Kovar this summer.
The goalkeeper had spent last season on-loan with Sparta - the third loan spell of his career following stints with Swindon and Burton Albion. After helping the Czech side to the league title, they were keen to secure his signature on a permanent basis, as revealed by Rosicky earlier this summer.
However, it appears that negotiations have not progressed how the ex-Arsenal playmaker will have wanted. He has since confirmed that Sparta are no longer in the running given how long talks have gone on for.
Rosicky said: “Matej Kovar, together with his agency and Manchester United, continue to consider how his career will continue. We wanted it to be in Sparta but, at this moment we can’t wait any longer.
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“The peak of our summer is approaching in the form of Champions League qualification. As I already said during the training camp in Austria, if we can’t bring Matej now, we have to react.”
Kovar, 23, made 32 appearances in all competitions last season for Sparta and helped them to the league title. They finished two points clear of fierce rivals Slavia Prague, ahead of the Championship group, and ended up winning the title on goal difference.
Matej Kovar will not be moving to Sparta Prague this summer (Getty Images)Who else do you think Man United should sign this summer? Share your suggestions in the comments below
Confirming the decision not to return to the club, Kovar posted an emotional farewell on Instagram. He wrote: "This day marks the end of my time in Sparta. I am very happy that I could be a part of the biggest club in the Czech Republic and help the team to win the title after a long wait.
"I am grateful for the opportunity I was given to be a part of such a great team and club. With this message I would like to thank everyone at the club. From the club management to the players themselves, coaches and all Sparta employees.
"Even though my tenure only lasted ten months, I already know that I can call this place home and it will always remain in my heart. Although this story ends, the memories will remain forever.
"Lastly, I would like to thank you fans. I will always remember the support I felt from the first match until today. It was a ride none of us will ever forget.
"Even though I say goodbye to you today, I am extremely proud that I could consider myself one of you and help bring Sparta back to where it belongs. Thanks for everything Sparta I will never forget."