Manchester United are reportedly eyeing a former Everton misfit as their backup plan if they fail to secure one of the sought-after ‘super strikers’ this transfer window.
Under Ruben Amorim, the Red Devils are on the hunt for a new No.9 following a challenging season for Rasmus Hojlund. The Danish striker managed only four goals in 32 Premier League appearances last term, while summer signing Joshua Zirkzee is yet to prove himself as a consistent goalscorer.
United have already bolstered their attack with the addition of Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha, but Amorim sees him as a ‘wide 10’, leaving room for a traditional centre-forward. Names like Bryan Mbeumo and Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres have been floated, though the latter reportedly favours a move to Arsenal.
Plan B: Hugo Ekitike and the Kean Factor
With Gyokeres leaning towards the Gunners, United have turned their attention to Hugo Ekitike. However, Eintracht Frankfurt’s hefty £80 million price tag for their star player has forced the Red Devils to consider alternative options. Enter Moise Kean, the Fiorentina striker who could be United’s fallback plan.
According to Corriere Fiorentino, while United are still chasing one of the elite strikers on the market, Kean remains firmly on their radar. The Italian forward, who endured a forgettable Premier League stint with Everton, has resurrected his career in Florence, scoring 19 Serie A goals and 25 across all competitions last season.
Everton’s Forgotten Man
Kean’s time at Everton was nothing short of a nightmare. Signed from Juventus for £25 million in 2019, the then-teenager managed just four goals in 39 appearances. His struggles peaked when he was substituted shortly after coming on during a match at Old Trafford, a moment that became emblematic of his time in England.
However, since joining Fiorentina permanently last July for a modest €13 million, Kean has flourished. His €52 million (£44.3 million) release clause now makes him an affordable option for clubs eyeing a proven goalscorer.
Competition and Saudi Interest
United aren’t alone in their pursuit of Kean. AC Milan have also reportedly added him to their shortlist, while Al Qadsiah of the Saudi Pro League have tabled a lucrative €15 million per season offer. Despite the interest, Fiorentina are keen to retain their star forward.
United’s Striker Dilemma
While Kean’s signing might initially raise eyebrows among the Old Trafford faithful, his recent form suggests he could be a shrewd acquisition. Additionally, United have been linked with Juventus’ Dusan Vlahovic, who is rumoured to be available for just £40 million.
For now, the Red Devils’ striker search remains wide open, with Amorim weighing his options carefully. Whether it’s a blockbuster signing or a calculated gamble on Kean, United are determined to strengthen their attack ahead of the new season.
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