United’s Striker Search
Manchester United have reportedly discussed a potential move for Brentford striker Igor Thiago. This comes as the club considers selling Joshua Zirkzee this summer. Zirkzee, who joined from Bologna in a £36.5million deal, has scored nine goals in 75 appearances for the Red Devils.
The Dutch striker featured sparingly after Carrick’s arrival and may be moved on this summer. Clubs in Italy are reportedly interested in bringing Zirkzee back to Serie A. Juventus are among the frontrunners, reportedly seeking to sign the Netherlands international on a season-long loan.
United, however, would prefer a permanent sale for Zirkzee but would need to secure a replacement before the transfer window closes. Transfer journalist Ben Jacobs indicated that Thiago is a name under consideration following his performance last season.
Thiago recorded 22 goals in 38 league appearances, which led to his call-up to Carlo Ancelotti’s squad for the World Cup. He signed a new contract with Brentford in February, which is set to expire in 2031. Despite this, United have made enquiries to assess the player’s situation.
Jacobs stated that Thiago has been discussed as a player who is “Premier League ready.” He added that these are internal conversations and routine calls to understand the player’s status, noting that securing his departure this summer could be challenging.
Other Attacking and Defensive Targets
Beyond Thiago, United have also been linked with other forwards. Dusan Vlahovic, who left Juventus on a free transfer at the end of last season, is one such player. The Serbian international scored ten goals for Juventus last season and has reportedly received an offer from Turkish side Besiktas.
The Red Devils are also monitoring Ollie Watkins’ situation at Aston Villa. Watkins has also reportedly attracted interest from Turkey. United have already strengthened their midfield by signing Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, while Karl Darlow has joined from Leeds United as a back-up for Senne Lammens.
The club is reportedly still looking to add another central midfielder, with Carlos Baleba and Manu Kone being considered. Additionally, United may consider making a bid for Newcastle United left-back Lewis Hall.
Hall was prominently featured in Newcastle’s new away kit launch announcement, being the only player quoted in the press release and referred to as a “boyhood Magpies fan.” While some interpreted this as a sign of him staying, players have appeared in promotional material before leaving in the same transfer window.
United’s interest in Hall is documented, but the likelihood of signing him this summer appears to be diminishing. Newcastle sold Anthony Gordon to Barcelona in a £70million deal and Sandro Tonali to Tottenham for £100m, strengthening their financial position. Newcastle officials have privately indicated they do not need to sell more players, though a significant offer could be considered.
Arsenal have reportedly unsettled Bruno Guimaraes with their interest this summer. Losing Guimaraes and Hall after the sales of Gordon and Tonali would be seen as a significant setback for Newcastle. Newcastle has maintained that neither Guimaraes nor Hall are for sale.
A figure of £50million has been mentioned by some United fans regarding Hall, but Newcastle acquired him for a reported £35m and he is under contract until 2029. United have already signed two midfielders and plan to sign another, with scope to spend before the transfer deadline. However, a £70m bid for Hall could strain the budget.
At that point, he would have two years remaining on his contract, which might compel Newcastle to consider offers. Luke Shaw started every Premier League game last season, demonstrating consistent performances.
Patrick Dorgu and Harry Amass are also being considered for the left-back position. Dorgu could serve as a capable back-up at left-back, having shown improvement when moved to the wing. United may need to pursue a long-term strategy if they intend to sign Hall.
Source: manchestereveningnews.co.uk
As News-UK's Sports News Writer, Oscar Pennington reports on rugby union, golf and boxing for readers across the country. He built a reputation for sharp explainer pieces on regional sport. He holds a degree in Journalism from Nottingham Trent University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Oscar lives in Nottingham, where he follows the pro golf tour and amateur boxing. “Context is what turns a result into a story.”
