Sources have informed ESPN that Manchester United are showing hesitance in paying more than £60 million ($79 million) for Atalanta striker Rasmus Höjlund. The Denmark international has been identified as one of United’s top targets as manager Erik ten Hag aims to bolster his squad’s goal-scoring capabilities. However, negotiations have hit a roadblock as the two clubs are far apart in terms of the transfer fee. United is now exploring other options to strengthen their forward line.
Atalanta is determined to receive a substantial return for the 20-year-old, given that he is under contract until 2027. On the other hand, United believes that a valuation exceeding £85m does not align with Höjlund’s limited experience, having played fewer than 100 senior games. Furthermore, the striker only managed to score nine goals in Serie A last season. As a result, United’s recruitment department has identified Eintracht Frankfurt striker Randal Kolo Muani as a potential alternative.
United Open to Considering Various Forward Options
While United is in pursuit of established number 9s, sources have revealed that the club is also open to exploring other forward options. Manager Erik ten Hag has expressed interest in Mohammed Kudus from Ajax, a versatile player capable of fulfilling multiple roles across the front line. Ajax is actively looking into the possibility of solidifying their interest in the 22-year-old, who impressively scored 18 goals last season. It is worth noting that Chelsea has also shown interest in acquiring Kudus’s services.
During a press conference in San Diego as part of United’s preseason tour in the United States, Erik ten Hag acknowledged that progress is being made in securing a new forward. However, he emphasized the need for a swift resolution, stating, “We make progress, yes, but we know how it works and when we have him, we will tell you directly.” Ten Hag expressed his desire to integrate the new signing into the team as quickly as possible, highlighting the importance of aligning with their style of play.
Despite Tottenham Hotspur’s indication that Harry Kane may be available for transfer this summer if he refuses to sign a new contract, a deal for the English captain remains highly unlikely for Manchester United. Kane is reportedly being pursued by Bayern Munich, but United is not actively pursuing his signature. With only one year left on his contract, Spurs are keen to avoid the risk of losing him on a free transfer next summer.
Furthermore, Manchester United has distanced themselves from claims made by Paris Saint-Germain regarding their interest in signing Kylian Mbappe. The club has no intention of pursuing the French forward at this time.
United’s pursuit of a new forward has been driven by the club’s recognition of underperformance in that area. Erik ten Hag acknowledged, “We are underperforming there and we are aware of it.” The club has already strengthened the midfield department and resolved the goalkeeper situation with the arrival of Mason Mount and Andre Onana, respectively. However, securing a prolific goalscorer remains a priority for United.
The potential return of Anthony Martial could provide a boost to United’s attacking options. The Frenchman missed the latter part of last season due to a hamstring injury but has returned to training at the University of California San Diego. Erik ten Hag expressed optimism about Martial’s availability and highlighted his contribution to the team’s scoring abilities. While United has demonstrated success without Martial, having a quality striker greatly enhances their chances of winning major trophies.
Maintaining a firm stance on their valuation of striker targets, Manchester United is cautious due to the tight restrictions surrounding Financial Fair Play. The club is concerned that overpaying for a forward, even by a mere £10 million, could impact their ability to make further signings in January and the following summer transfer window.
The arrival of Andre Onana has left goalkeeper Tom Heaton uncertain about his future at the club. Although Heaton kept a clean sheet in the recent victory over Arsenal, he admitted that his situation needs to be discussed with the manager. While expressing his love for Manchester United, the 37-year-old acknowledged his desire to play regularly and revealed potential interest from newly-promoted Luton Town.
Leave a Reply