Manchester United are set to battle Paris Saint-Germain and Newcastle United for Benfica forward Goncalo Ramos in the January transfer window.
That is according to Portuguese outlet Record, who claim that he tops Erik ten Hag’s shortlist of players.
United’s attack is threadbare, with the manager publicly admitting the squad’s need for a new striker in the winter.
The Red Devils’ currently have only Anthony Martial as a natural centre forward, and the Frenchman has endured a difficult campaign thus far.
He made only his third Premier League start yesterday against Nottingham Forest, and while he played well and scored, relying on him throughout the remainder of the season is a risky proposition.
Ramos has been in fantastic form for Benfica this season, seamlessly replacing Darwin Nunez, who joined Liverpool in the summer.
The Portugal star has scored 15 goals for the league leaders already and has impressed with his all-round game.
At only 21 years of age, Ramos would represent a fantastic long-term solution to United’s woes up front.
Ten Hag’s team were on a goal difference of zero heading into the match against Nottingham Forest yesterday, and it is clear that a clinical finisher could have even doubled United’s 3-0 victory.
Whether United can afford to make a move for a player so critical to Benfica’s success this season remains to be seen.
Financially, the Red Devils do not seem to be in a position to compete with their rivals for permanent signings and look to be exploring loan opportunities instead.
The summer would be a more likely time for a deal to go through between Ramos and United, although with interest from state-backed clubs, there is a worry that such a time would be too late.
Manchester United have been beaten by Liverpool in the race for Erik ten Hag’s primary attacking target, Cody Gakpo.
Since the summer, United have had a legitimate interest in Gakpo but after dithering and behaving passively, Liverpool swooped in and hurriedly tied up a deal for the Dutchman.
News broke that Liverpool were close to agreeing terms for the 23-year-old before PSV Eindhoven later confirmed in a statement that the deal was sealed with Gakpo on his way to Anfield to complete his medicals.
Since then, there has been outrage from supporters who have accused club bosses of failing yet another manager.
A recent report indicated that United knew about Liverpool’s interest but chose not to compete with them, essentially allowing their bitter rivals a free run at the Netherlands international.
The Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell reports on this, “Essentially, they [United] decided they could not afford him this month, especially when there remained some doubts about his suitability at centre-forward.”
“As recently as last week, Ten Hag and United’s recruitment staff, including football director John Murtough, looked at whether to pay the € 50 million (£44.2m; $53.2m) fee in the winter window, knowing it would come off the summer budget.”
“Sources insist Jurgen Klopp’s side were aware they had a free run.”
United explored the possibility of tapping into credit facilities to fund Gakpo’s purchase.
The club soon changed their stance and decided that January is a month for prudence. This gave Liverpool the impetus to press ahead and complete a deal for Gakpo.
Whitwell indicates that the feeling inside the club, however, is that the Glazers would be happy to sanction deals with the full knowledge that someone else will pick up the tab, with a takeover imminent.
United have now turned their attention to other targets, with an emphasis being placed on loan deals.
Manchester United transfer target Jonathan David opens up on a potential move to the Premier League.
This winter, the club are looking to replace Cristiano Ronaldo who departed last month once his contract was terminated by mutual consent.
Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford seem like the obvious options to start up top but it is very likely that both players will always start games.
The need for a backup striker, or even a forward who can fight for their place in the starting eleven is important heading into the January market.
The 22-year-old has been outstanding for his club, Lille after scoring 41 goals in all competitions since his arrival in 2020.
David has been a rumoured transfer target for some time at the club now and could be about to become the primary target after Cody Gakpo’s unexpected move to Liverpool.
Goal reports on the interview conducted by La Voix du Nord where David shares his opinion on the Premier League.
“I don’t know, I think it’s possible, very possible. I don’t know if I can find myself anywhere other than the Premier League.”
“It could well be the Premier League. It’s a very nice atmosphere.”
“In England, when I watch the matches, everything is full each time.”
“As a player, it motivates you even more.”
Erik ten Hag has made it clear that Man United need to get it right when finding the replacement for Ronaldo.
In recent seasons strikers have not had a successful career at the club, often departing the next year or failing to impress the manager.
At Ajax, Ten Hag had a brilliant setup and will no doubt want to emulate that team structure in England.
David wants to break Eden Hazard’s Lille goal-scoring record before departing to a new league.
Lille coach Paulo Fonseca has admitted that it will be hard to keep the Canadian international beyond this season.
“It will be difficult to keep Jonathan David at the club next season.
There are not many strikers with his skills and numbers in Europe and he’s just 22.”
While a move in the winter market hasn’t been ruled out yet, a summer transfer seems the more likely option due to budget constraints.
Chelsea are ready to make a mega-money move for Argentina’s World Cup midfield star, Enzo.
As reported in Portuguese media outlet record.pt, The Blues are keen to bolster their squad in January and have made the Benfica man a key target.
Fernández enjoyed a fine World Cup on both an individual and collective level, with Argentina eventually lifting the trophy in Qatar after a marathon final against France.
Despite missing his penalty in the shootout, Fernández was one of the Argentine’s key performers during the final and the tournament overall.
His performances have left Benfica bracing themselves for bids from across Europe for their star man.
Benfica are believed to be open to offers but will demand a fee of around €130 for the player who is under contract until 2027, leaving the club in a strong position.
As things stand, Chelsea are believed to be leading the race for his signature, having reportedly made contact with the Portuguese giants.
However, Fernández’s rise in profile has alerted many clubs, including Manchester United and The Blues will face a battle to sign the midfielder.
Erik ten Hag is looking to improve the quality and competition across his squad and Fernández is one of the names linked with a move to Old Trafford.
The inflated fee may put the Glazer family off turning interest into a formal offer, but no doubt Fernandez would be a welcome addition to the United squad.
High energy, tenacious with quality on the ball, the 21-year-old has the potential to become one of the leading midfielders in world football.
Should Fernández become available to United, Ten Hag will no doubt be hoping the club can find the funds to lure the World Cup winner to the Theatre of Dreams.
Garnacho may son set his sight of another area in which he can replace Ronaldo, with the number seven shirt still vacant at Man United.
The veteran striker was released after an explosive interview with Piers Morgan before the World Cup.
But United’s positive results since returning to domestic action have left fans optimistic over their club’s prospects without the Portugal captain.
Erik ten Hag will now be hoping for a continuation of the convincing wins over Burnley and Nottingham Forest.
With the manager light on attacking options, it is likely that Garnacho will have plenty of chances to hear his name sung at Old Trafford again before the season is out.
Elsewhere, Antony returns on the right wing, with Marcus Rashford switching back to the left and Alejandro Garnacho dropping down to the bench.
David de Gea, as expected, returns in goal after Martin Dubravka’srare outing against Burnley last week.
Scott McTominaydrops out altogether – suggesting illness – with Casemiro returning to his normal central midfield position.
Against Burnley the Brazilian was used as a makeshift centre back.
The remaining places are unchanged, with Aaron Wan-Bissaka at right back, Christian Eriksen alongside Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes ahead of them in the number 10 role and Anthony Martial up front.
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Manchester United midfield target Enzo Fernandez has finally had his say on the constant reports linking him with a switch to Old Trafford.
During the World Cup, United’s interest in the Benfica man intensified as he made seven appearances, scoring once and registering an assist as well.
His impressive performances led to him winning the Young Player of the Tournament award while alerting many clubs to his availability.
Liverpool are also keen on Fernandez as Jurgen Klopp looks to bolster his midfield options.
Real Madrid are also admirers of Fernandez although reports from Spain relayed that Los Blancos have decided to explore a different path and now have their sights trained on Jude Bellingham.
It was recently reported that United now lead the race for the Argentine and have bypassed Liverpool in the hotly-contested race for Fernandez.
United are said to be willing to meet the player’s astronomic release clause.
The 21-year-old addressed these reports and refused to be dragged into divulging his intentions.
The World Cup winner told GE Globo, “I don’t know about my future or proposals, that’s what my representative is taking care of.”
“I don’t want to get into the subject.”
“I am focused on Benfica, we have a game on Friday.”
Enzo Fernández: “I don't know about my future or proposals, that's what my representative is taking care of” 🚨🔴 #transfers@AlbicelesteTalk
“I don't want to get into the subject. I am focused on Benfica, we have a game on Friday”. pic.twitter.com/OkqcxQFCTd
Benfica have made it clear more than once that the only way to pry Fernandez off their hands in January is to pay his release clause.
His release clause is reportedly worth around a whooping €120m – a figure the Red Devils may be reluctant to part with amidst cash problems at Old Trafford and the takeover process.
The player’s comments and his refusal to categorically rule out a move will however be a source of encouragement for United fans.
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This Christmas has definitely not been a joyous occasion if you are a Manchester United fan.
After months of speculation linking the club with every available striker on the planet, it seemed like the club had finally found their man.
Cody Gakpo enjoyed a fine World Cup, scoring thrice and has even carried on his scintillating club form of last season into the current season for PSV Eindhoven.
Sharing the same agency as United boss Erik ten Hag was supposed to make this deal that bit easier and the transfer was expected to be concluded early in January.
Christmas heartbreak for United
Instead, yesterday news broke of Liverpool’s attempt at hijacking the deal and it soon turned out to be real as PSV announced that their star asset was indeed moving to Merseyside.
It was a bitter pill to swallow for fans as well as the manager who had publicly revealed that he needed attacking reinforcements ahead of the second-half of the season.
And that is not the end of United’s misery. A recent report in The Daily Mail has now revealed that not much in the form of business is expected from the club due to the imminent sale of the club.
Manchester United will NOT buy players this January, with only loan deals on the table https://t.co/sSiBYwjMeR
“Manchester United have been reduced to shopping in the loan market this January as the Glazers look to sell the club,” the report read.
Due to the uncertainty surrounding the club’s sale which is expected to happen in the first financial quarter of 2023, the move for Gakpo failed to materialise.
United’s remaining forward targets include big-money players such as Goncalo Ramos and Rafael Leao. If a move for the Dutch forward failed, a move for the aforementioned duo is not expected to be completed in January.
Loan deals only option for United
The only remaining options include a loan deal for Joao Felix of Atletico Madrid or a relatively cheap deal for Barcelona’s Memphis Depay.
A move for a back-up right-back was also expected but there is no certainty anymore.
“The news the club will only be able to do loan deals is a hammer blow to Erik ten Hag who had big hopes heading into the window,” the report added.
It remains to be seen how the club copes with this latest setback and whether an alternative can be arranged for Ten Hag who must be desperate at this point.
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Robin van Persie has revealed how close he came to signing for Italian side Juventus, before eventually joining Manchester United.
As reported in Italian outlet calciomercato.com, Van Persie says a deal was done in principle, for him to move from Arsenal to the Italian giants.
However, it was a move to Manchester that eventually materialized, with the forward setting his sights on a Premier League title.
Van Persie recalls a meeting with the Arsenal hierarchy which inadvertently convinced him his future lay outside of The Emirates.
“One day the president of Arsenal showed me the positive balance, I replied that I didn’t care about anything and just wanted to win the Premier League,” he said.
Knowing his ambitions no longer aligned with the club, he set about making his move out of London and Italy looked a viable option.
“I wanted to leave England, so I found an agreement with Juventus but Arsenal blew everything up. So I went to Manchester United,” he said.
In what turned out to be Sir Alex Ferguson‘s final season at United, he convinced the Dutch hitman that Old Trafford was the place for him and the move paid off handsomely.
United wrestled the Premier League title back from Manchester City, finishing the season 11 points clear of their noisy neighbours to deliver United their 20th top-flight crown.
Van Persie played a starring role during the campaign, finishing top scorer in the league and providing memorable moments aplenty.
The Dutchman netted huge winners away at City and Liverpool, as well as scoring at Stamford Bridge, White Hart Lane and home and away against former club Arsenal.
However, his crowning moment came on the night that secured the title. With Aston Villa looking to spoil the party, the left-footed magician scored an incredible hat trick, including one of the greatest goals ever seen at the Theatre of Dreams.
Wayne Rooney launched a 40 yard ball toward Van Persie, who pulled into space before lashing a wonderful first-time volley past Brad Guzan to put United two up on the night and send Old Trafford into raptures.
The unforgettable night was arguably the last great night at Old Trafford with the club’s struggles over the last decade well documented.
Van Persie’s countryman, Erik ten Hag is the latest manager charged with bringing the glory days back to the club and United are back in Premier League action against Nottingham Forest, this evening.
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Cody Gakpo will join Liverpool instead of Manchester United.
Yesterday night, news broke that United’s bitter rivals had joined the race for Gakpo. Soon after that revelation, it was reported that the Merseyside club had agreed a fee with PSV Eindhoven for Gakpo’s transfer.
The Dutchman is expected at Anfield imminently to complete his medical before signing a six-year deal with Jurgen Klopp’s side.
Liverpool have had a successful history of gazumping their rivals regarding transfers recently. The Gakpo deal was reminiscent to what the Reds had pulled off when they hijacked Tottenham in the pursuit of Luis Diaz last January.
The Mirror’s Simon Mullock and Nathan Ridley report that United found out ahead of time about Gakpo’s transfer to Liverpool.
Once United found out, they decided not to rival Liverpool for Gakpo’s signing.
The Mirror indicates, “Jurgen Klopp and Co have trumped United’s efforts and are close signing the sought-after Dutch forward. Gakpo, 23, is now en route to Merseyside and set to complete a medical before officially becoming a Liverpool player.”
“The deal is understood to cost a total of €51million (£45m) and while United had been negotiating around that figure, Anfield chiefs were willing to pay more of the fee up front in a lump sum worth £37m, an offer which appealed to PSV.”
“When officials at Old Trafford – who were keen on an alternative payment structure – learned of Liverpool’s progress, they decided not to make a counter-offer and admit defeat.”
This transfer blow comes after a recent report indicated that United had opened talks with PSV over a transfer for Gakpo.
Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk played a crucial role in convincing Gakpo to move to the Premier League with Liverpool.
The two were together for weeks during the World Cup before the Netherlands got eliminated in the quarter-finals of the tournament by Argentina.
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It was heartbreak for all Manchester United fans just after Christmas as long-term attacking target Cody Gakpo sealed a transfer to arch-rivals Liverpool.
Reports in the past few weeks linking the Dutch international to a move to Old Trafford had ramped up and the hope was the deal would be concluded swiftly.
But in a sudden twist, the Merseyside club stole a march on United and sealed a super-quick deal for the PSV Eindhoven attacker, news of which broke just an hour before the confirmation arrived.
Heartbreak for United
Erik ten Hag and Gakpo shared the same agency and United had even spoken to the forward during the summer, before eventually landing Antony.
The former Ajax boss had publicly revealed that his team was short on firepower up front, which made a deal for Gakpo all the more probable.
But now that the 23-year-old is out of reach, the Red Devils need to figure out how best to solve their goal-scoring crisis.
The remaining options include the likes of Joao Felix, Goncalo Ramos, Rafael Leao and Memphis Depay. But getting the likes of Ramos and Leao will prove to be a bridge too far considering how stretched the finances are at the club.
While Depay would prove to be a short-term option, Felix would represent a brilliant option going forward and Atletico Madrid are open to negotiating a loan deal in January.
Chelsea have joined the race for Joao Felix while Liverpool are about to sign Cody Gakpo.
Erik ten Hag will certainly be furious because he obviously wanted Gakpo but could miss out due to Man Utd being slow. Embarrassing!
Felix’s relationship with Atletico boss Diego Simeone has broken down completely and with the disgruntled forward not happy in Madrid anymore, the club have revealed that they are open to the star leaving.
As reported by The Peoples Person, the Red Devils and Arsenal are fighting it out for the Portugal international with the Gunners considered to be leading the chase at the moment.
Chelsea could trump United & Arsenal
However, according to The Daily Telegraph, “Chelsea are looking at a deal for Atletico Madrid Joao Felix on an initial loan to bolster Graham Potter’s attack for the second half of the season.”
Potter is targeting a defender and a goal-scoring winger in January and Felix fits the bill perfectly.
“According to Spanish sources, Atletico are braced for an offer from Chelsea as they look to climb back into the Champions League places,” the report added.
“Chelsea are considering a loan with an option or obligation to buy in the summer, depending on the terms Atletico want for Felix’s departure.”
Recent comments made by journalists have indicated that Ten Hag wants an out-and-out striker in the mould of a traditional No 9 and if that is true, Felix might be better served heading elsewhere.
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Manchester United are likely to be busy in the January transfer window which opens in less than a week.
United and Erik ten Hag will primarily be in the hunt for a striker, with the team in desperate need of attacking reinforcements.
United are normally not active during the winter window, but the situation changed with Cristiano Ronaldo’s bitter exit from Old Trafford.
United have been linked with a number of names. Cody Gakpo is at the top of the list. A recent report indicated that the Red Devils have already opened talks with PSV Eindhoven over Gakpo’s transfer.
Other players that have been mentioned include Joao Felix, Rafael Leao, and Benfica’s Goncalo Ramos.
The Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell reports on United’s January transfer plan, “Ten Hag’s liking for him [Cody Gakpo] has remained [from the summer]. Scouting department staff are aligned in that thinking.
“Ten Hag is with the same agency as Gakpo. The Athletic has been told Murtough met with Kees Vos, CEO of SEG agency, at Carrington in the last fortnight. Voss is a regular at Old Trafford and the pair see each other regularly.
“Whatever money is spent will come out of the summer budget and Ten Hag must decide, in conjunction with Murtough and Joel Glazer, whether that is the right call.”
United could also be in the market for cheap, short-term solutions. In this regard, Whitwell mentions Bayern Munich’s Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting whose contract in Bavaria expires in June.
Another stop-gap that could be available as per The Athletic is Barcelona’s Memphis Depay. The Dutchman was offered to United in the summer but the club did not take the Blaugrana up on their offer.
Reports from Spain recently indicated that Newcastle will compete with United for Depay’s signature in January.
Ten Hag admires Goncalo Ramos, but a deal could be hampered by the fact that Benfica would demand a huge fee to part with their prolific goalscorer before the end of the season.
After the resumption of domestic football following the World Cup break, Manchester United were made to huff and puff en route to their 2-0 win over Burnley.
The victory was further complicated due to the absence of United’s first-choice centre-back pairing in Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane.
To make matters worse, their third-choice defender and club captain Harry Maguire reported sick and had to be left out with coach Erik ten Hag forced to play midfielder Casemiro in defence.
While that particular experiment worked out in the end, the Premier League is unlikely to be that forgiving.
Defensive crisis at United
The Dutchman will be aware of the need to play the Brazilian in midfield if they are to not get overrun by decent Premier League opposition.
The former Ajax coach has revealed to club media that Maguire has overcome his illness and has taken part in team training on Monday.
Whether his fitness is up to the mark and whether he can play from the start alongside Victor Lindelof on Tuesday remains to be seen.
Ten Hag: “We had some problems with illness like Harry Maguire, but he was back on the training pitch so I’m happy with that.” #mufc
“We had some problems with illness like Harry Maguire, but he was back on the training pitch today so I’m happy with that,” the boss revealed.
Maguire’s return is hugely significant as otherwise the Dutch boss would have had to choose between Casemiro and Scott McTominay as starting defenders, something Nottingham Forest would definitely have targeted.
As for World Cup winner Martinez and finalist Varane, the former Ajax boss added that the pair are yet to be back following their World Cup exertions but he is hopeful that they will be back soon.
“Returning from Rapha Varane and Licha Martinez, they are not there [back at United] but we hope on their comeback [soon].”
Can Maguire return inspire United?
With the exception of the defensive duo, all of United’s World Cup stars are back and expected to be part of the Nottingham Forest encounter.
“The feeling is good. The players from the World Cup are back, are integrated again and you feel they are excited.
”[They had] massive impressions there [in Qatar], but now they are back, and you feel their energy.
”They are looking forward to the restart [of the Premier League].”
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Unless one has been living under a rock, Manchester United’s protracted yet ultimately fruitless chase of Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong was the summer transfer window saga of this year.
New manager Erik ten Hag had decided quite early on during his tenure that the team needed to have a strong spine and had deemed the incumbent midfield duo of Scott McTominay and Fred as not good enough for a team like United.
And he had earmarked former Ajax star De Jong as the perfect man for the job. As reported extensively during the summer, the Dutch boss had called the midfielder to convince him about his project.
The internal conversations were so positive that the club went ahead and agreed a €75million deal with the Catalan giants for the transfer of the diminutive playmaker.
FDJ saga to continue in 2023
But a combination of wage issues coupled with the player’s desire to stay at the club meant a deal never materialised and the Red Devils eventually ended up getting Real Madrid superstar Casemiro instead.
But reports linking the 20-time English champions with the Netherlands international have refused to go away and it seems like it will spill over onto the next summer as well.
According to SPORT, United remain confident of signing the 25-year-old despite president Joan Laporta’s recent comments.
Barça president Laporta on de Jong and Man United: “I’ve never wanted to sell Frenkie de Jong. He has to be a pillar of the team”, tells BarçaTV 🚨🇳🇱 #MUFC
“January signings? We did the work in the summer. There are no indications of having to do any deal now”. #FCBpic.twitter.com/iocIowEjBX
“The English club is absolutely convinced that they will have options to sign him this summer and, from England, the latest statements by the Blaugrana president, Joan Laporta, are seen, declaring the Dutchman non-transferable as an action to raise the price of a possible transfer,” the report added.
Currently, Barcelona have no plan to sell their midfield asset and even though they do not plan to reduce his salary as of now, they expect the player to make a positive gesture in that regard.
“The Dutchman and his entourage, for now, have ignored any negotiation attempt by Barça to reduce their record and it seems quite clear that they will not enter this game,” the article further elaborated.
Laporta had recently revealed his stance on the summer saga and how he saw the player currently.
“I never wanted to sell Frenkie de Jong. He is one of our mainstays, a great talent, and is already one of the team leaders,” as per reports from Mundo Deportivo.
United think they are in pole position to strike in the summer of 2023
But United are aware of these negotiation tactics and are also aware of the complete breakdown in relationship between the playmaker and the club.
The Dutch playmaker had even revealed that he had felt “cheated and harassed during the summer” after the under-hand tricks employed by the board.
The Red Devils think they are in an advantageous position considering one year has passed and that the price will be lower considering all the drama that had transpired in the summer which had affected the player deeply.
“At United they understand that the footballer’s appraisal, with one year less on his contract, must be lower than what was offered last summer.
“They are going to try until the end, but what is clear is that it is the footballer who has the upper hand and will be the one who decides his sporting future in the coming months,” the report further clarified.
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Yesterday we published an article covering a report from Spain claiming that Liverpool had dropped out of the race to sign Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham, but a fresh report today refutes that claim.
Liverpool were believed to be the favourites alongside Real Madrid to sign the midfielder from Borussia Dortmund at the end of the season, with Manchester United, City and Chelsea also in the running.
Yesterday’s report claimed that the Merseysiders had “got off the horse in the middle of the race” and decided to turn their attentions to Benfica’s Enzo Fernandez, leaving United with one less competitor for the coveted signature.
However, The Times today reports that Jurgen Klopp is still desperate to sign the England man and when asked about the mooted £130 million price tag, responded:
“I don’t like to talk about money when you talk about a player like him. Everyone can see he is just exceptional.
“He played an exceptional World Cup. With all the things he has and things he can improve, I would say the things he can do are difficult to learn, and the things he can improve are easy to learn.
“So, yes, he is a really good player. What can I say? I have thought that for two or three years since he had his breakthrough at Dortmund.”
One issue that may get in Klopp’s way is the strong possibility that Liverpool do not qualify for the Champions League next season.
They currently lie in sixth place, seven points behind fourth placed Spurs, although they do have a game in hand.
However, Klopp does not see this as an obstacle, saying “If you ask a player and he says, ‘Next year you are not in the Champions League and I would prefer to go to a football club who plays this year and maybe not next year,’ then I am not sure I would still want this player, to be honest.
“For the moment we have two pathways to still qualify for the Champions League next year.”
Klopp’s comments certainly suggest his interest in Bellingham is still very much alive, although all noises coming from Spain suggest Real are supremely confident of signing the teenager.
This all leaves United with a mountain to climb if they want to bring world football’s hottest property to Old Trafford.
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One thing that new Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has excelled at his his talent identification and that trait has helped the club start the season strongly.
They are currently fifth in the Premier League, three points off fourth place with a game in hand while also being in the quarterfinals of the EFL Cup.
The summer transfer window saw the Dutchman get the first chance to shake up the existing squad and mould it in his own image and the former Ajax boss did just that.
Right-back search
He brought in two defenders, two midfielders and a winger and despite the huge outlay, all of them have proved to be real game-changers.
That is why when he informed the club that he needs a new right-back to provide competition and reduce the workload on Diogo Dalot, the club agreed to look into the matter in January.
Cristiano Ronaldo‘s acrimonious departure might have changed the scenario and the club’s priorities but the need to recruit a full-back remains.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka, his Burnley performance notwithstanding, seems to be on his way out and that is likely to help the manager in his quest for a more accomplished right-back.
Quite a few names have been mentioned as targets for the 20-time English champions and Jeremie Frimpong‘s name is also on that list.
Journalist Steve Bates has told GiveMeSport that the Red Devils are indeed “looking at” the Bayer Leverkusen defender and his nationality might hand United the edge.
It has not been surprising to see that with the exception of Casemiro, all four permanent arrivals have had a Dutch connection. Ten Hag has a fair knowledge of Frimpong’s ability.
Frimpong’s Dutch connection
“He speaks English perfectly; he was brought up here, and he’s Dutch, so Ten Hag has got an in there let’s say that.
“And I think he’ll be certainly on the shortlist of players United will be looking at,” Bates said in an interview with GMS.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano had revealed that Frimpong price tag is around £25 million and that the 22-year-old ‘would be really keen’ to make the move to Old Trafford.
The speed merchant has registered five goals and three assists in 21 appearances across all competitions and his performances saw him named in the Dutch World Cup squad.
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The current Manchester United team is vastly different from the one that supporters watched struggle last season under three different managers.
Dressing room cliques and squad disharmony are no more and the team is showing steely resolve and are slowly but surely displaying the kind of form that can allow them to realise their goals.
Even though it is just the start, new manager Erik ten Hag is on the right path. The Dutchman has improved the club both off the field and on it.
His tactical nous and man-management style and has also got quite a few previously under-performing stars back on track.
ETH has transformed most aspects at United
But he is not a miracle worker and that can best be summed up by the fact that his presence has still not managed to get the best of his former protégé — Donny van de Beek.
A bonafide star back at Ajax, the Dutch midfielder has never truly impressed for the Red Devils since his move back in the summer of 2020.
After a listless few seasons under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Ralf Rangnick, a loan spell at Everton was meant to signal his return to form.
But that loan spell failed as well and just when it looked like his United career was stuttering to a halt, news emerged of his former coach’s arrival at Old Trafford.
Mikael Silvestre: “Sayangnya, kita belum melihat banyak perubahan pada Donny van de Beek. Ia tidak memiliki banyak kesempatan untuk menjadi starter. Kita belum dapat melihat pemain yang kita lihat sebelumnya di Ajax." pic.twitter.com/G0KXzwIVar
What was supposed to mark the beginning of his career’s renaissance ended up turning into a fresh nightmare and it is showing no sign of abatement.
The 25-year-old has managed one start in the Premier League this campaign and even failed to impress during the Spanish friendly he took part in.
Donny one of ETH’s biggest failures
Another mystery injury meant he has now failed to start against Burnley in the EFL Cup despite the obvious selection conundrums that were posed to Ten Hag due to the World Cup.
Yet another damning indictment on his time at the club and former United defender Mikel Silvestre feels the Red Devils should sell him if there is no “change” in the remainder of this season.
“He hasn’t had a lot of opportunities to start. We haven’t seen the player he was at Ajax. If it’s not within the next five to six months, till the end of the season, then there should be a change.
“Yes there are a lot of games to come so there will be a need for fresh players. We expect him to come from the bench and grab the opportunities.
“It’s hard when you don’t have a run of games. Let’s wait and see for Donny van de Beek.”
Ten Hag had already indicated that there was no point in sending him out temporarily yet again and it might be the beginning of the end for Van de Beek at United.
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It was supposed to be a tricky tie against Burnley in the EFL Cup due to big names being away because of the World Cup and the lack of match sharpness for a few.
Despite missing their top three centre-backs, Erik ten Hag’s side managed to make it to the quarterfinals of the Cup and now have a realistic chance of winning silverware.
But the Premier League is not as forgiving a stage and with Nottingham Forest and Wolverhampton Wanderers up next, the Dutchman has a massive hole to fix.
World Cup winner Lisandro Martinez and finalist Raphael Varane are not expected to be back before the year ends and that means the Red Devils will be without their top two centre-backs for the last two league games of the year.
CB issues
Another major blow has been Harry Maguire‘s illness. The England centre-back lost his starting berth under the current manager but impressed with some fine displays for the Three Lions at Qatar.
The former Ajax boss has not revealed when the club captain is expected back. “Harry, unfortunately, he’s ill,” the Dutch boss told MUTV.
“It’s an issue because Rapha and Licha were in the World Cup final but we pick Case [Casemiro], he plays more often there and also Luke [Shaw] he reported himself: ‘I can play centre-half’ which is really good so they are all committed and they want to play.”
Casemiro did line up at the back for the Burnley game but his presence will be needed in midfield against superior sides.
👊🏼🗞 Ten Hag on Maguire's availability: “I can’t answer because Harry is sick. I don’t know how that develops. We have to wait. Maybe the coming hours, maybe the coming days, and then we will see if he is available for Forest.” [MU] #MUFCpic.twitter.com/kgCEPDQMDy
As suggested by Luke Shaw, he can play as a make-shift defender as he did during Ole Gunnar Solskjaer‘s reign on certain occasions.
Gary Neville mentioned as much on Sky Sports after witnessing the Red Devils huff and puff their way to the quarterfinals of the EFL Cup.
“Martínez looks like he’s going to be at least a couple of weeks, Varane obviously he was injured and you don’t know when he’s going to come back.
ETH has a big problem to solve
“And if Harry Maguire ’s ill they’re going to go potentially with a really weakened defence into those Premier League games.
“I think if they had been playing against a Premier League team tonight they would have been punished, so they’ve got to get some players back quickly.”
The Scottish star has played in that position for Jose Mourinho and Solskjaer, not to mention for his national team.
That would allow Ten Hag to continue to play his preferred midfield pairing of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen which would in turn allow his team to dominate the ball and win back the ball as fast as possible.
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After a summer of heavy investment which saw a total of six players walk through the doors at Carrington, Manchester United were hoping for a relatively quite January transfer window.
New manager Erik ten Hag had pointed out the over-dependence on starting right-back Diogo Dalot and had intimated to the board that another right-back should be targeted in the winter.
But those plans had to be reshuffled following the acrimonious departure of last season’s top goalscorer Cristiano Ronaldo. The manager publicly admitted that he is currently short of firepower up front.
United’s transfer priorities have changed
And that has necessitated that the club change their approach and try and get the manager a goal-getter of note. But the World Cup ended up creating another problem.
Most of United’s targets ended up enjoying a fairly successful World Cup campaign and that saw their club sides increase their valuations.
The Red Devils will now be forced to choose which priority slot they want to fill as their finances are far too stretched to be able to bring in an attacker as well as a right-back.
*Dumfries Transfer News*
🔴🔴🔴Manchester United are pursuing a deal to sign Inter Milan star Denzel Dumfries, as Fabrizio Romano said via GiveMeSport. But #ManUnited would not want to spend around €50m for a right-back in their current situation.#ManUtd#MUFC#ManchesterUnitedpic.twitter.com/0UWZdseOoX
Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano has revealed to Givemesport that right full-back Denzel Dumfries of Inter Milan is being “pursued” by United, though a January transfer will be “really difficult.”
Italian outlet CalcioMercatoWeb has claimed that the Red Devils are not the only club after the World Cup hero, as Chelsea have also been credited with interest.
The 26-year-old still has two-and-a-half-years left to run on his existing contract with Inter and the Serie A giants will only agree to sell the full-back for €50 million (£43m).
“I don’t see them honestly investing crazy money on that position. So, when I see links to Denzel Dumfries, it’s true that they are pursuing the player.
“But I think it’s going to be really difficult for them to sign Dumfries in January especially having a budget limited because of the Glazer situation and also because they need a striker.
Dumfries’ valuation causing United headaches
“So, I don’t see the Dumfries deal available for Man United in January.”, leaving them in a strong position around the negotiating table,” Romano revealed.
Dumfries’ attacking ability was on full display during the World Cup where he scored one and assisted twice in five games.
The Netherlands international has established himself as one of the top attacking right-backs since his move to Italy as he has netted seven goals and added a further 10 assists in 65 appearances across all competitions.
However, his defensive frailties have also been exposed on numerous occasions. It remains to be seen if Ten Hag pushes for Dumfries in January or next summer if Aaron Wan-Bissaka continues to improve.
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The future of former Manchester United manager José Mourinho is up in the air after the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) made it clear they want him to be the new coach of the national side.
Recent incumbent Fernando Santos was sacked after the Iberians’ disappointing exit from the World Cup at the quarter final stage at the hands of Morocco.
Mourinho was widely tipped to replace him but is under contract to Serie A side AS Roma until June 2024.
Some reports have suggested that Mou will do both jobs at once, but former England manager Fabio Cappello (via Corriere della Serra) does not believe that this will happen.
“I don’t think [he will do both jobs], also given the seriousness and attention he puts into it, I don’t think he would accept such an assignment,” he said.
“You have to live the role of coach, go and see the players, talk to them.”
Meanwhile Corriere dello Sport claims the Special One won’t be deciding anything before June, saying “the Portuguese coach will dedicate himself exclusively to Roma until the end of the season.”
And Portuguese outlet Correio de Manhã says other reports have liked Mourinho to the Brazil job vacated by Tite.
It is unclear whether either nation will wait until June to Mourinho to take the helm or whether his determination to see the season out with Roma will cost him the chance to manage both.
If the 59 year old does take either job he will be almost certainly be managing United players once again.
Portugal have Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot and they could be joined at United by a number of international teammates, with the likes of goalkeeper Diogo Costa, attacking midfielder João Felix, winger Rafael Leao and striker Gonçalo Ramos all linked with a move to Old Trafford.
They could also be joined by long-term target Ruben Neves if Wolves fail to avoid relegation this season.
United Matchday Magazine – be in the know about everything in red!
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