Man Utd get creative as ex-Arsenal man is ‘shock target’ while ex-player is ‘under consideration’

Lewis Oldham
Man Utd target Giroud

Man Utd are seemingly getting creative in their attempts to sign a new striker as former Arsenal and Chelsea man Olivier Giroud is a ‘shock target’.

The Red Devils are reportedly in the market for a new striker after Cristiano Ronaldo left the club by mutual consent before the World Cup.

His early departure saved the club around £16m in unpaid wages but they are said to be unwilling to spend big on a replacement this month.

United passed up on an opportunity to sign Cody Gakpo before the Dutchman’s move to Liverpool. In their defence, he is more of a winger than a natural striker.

They are also being linked with Joao Felix who looks likely to leave Atletico Madrid this month on loan.

The La Liga giants will have to reduce their demands though as they are currently asking for around €21m in total. This is €15m as a loan fee plus his €6m salary.

Man Utd and Arsenal are said to be unwilling to pay this much. Instead, the Red Devils have identified Giroud as a ‘shock target’. This is according to The Times (via talkSPORT).

The former Arsenal and Chelsea striker is out of contract later this year so he would be available for a reduced fee this month.

This move would likely be opposed by United fans and it seems unlikely as he is ‘expected’ to sign a new contract to remain at AC Milan.

A fresh report from Laurie Whitwell of The Athletic states that a ‘loan is the most likely solution’ for the Red Devils.

Barcelona star Memphis Depay has been linked with them of late and Whitwell adds that he ‘will come under consideration’ as he is also due to be out of contract in June.

‘Erik ten Hag is pushing for a new centre-forward to boost his attacking options after losing Cristiano Ronaldo but after the summer overspend, Joel Glazer is reluctant to dip once more into the club’s credit facility,’ Whitwell said.

‘A loan is the most likely solution although, as ever, results may apply a certain pressure to United’s co-owner.

‘If the team gets closer to title contention, or alternatively drops out of the top four, then Glazer may make money available — as happened when United signed Bruno Fernandes in January 2020 following a traumatic sequence of losses.

‘Memphis Depay will come under consideration, given he only has six months left on his Barcelona contract and should be available for a modest financial commitment.

‘Talks were held last summer, although they were pushed more by Depay’s side. Joao Felix has also been discussed but Atletico Madrid’s asking price far exceeds United’s valuation.

‘The club’s prospective sale could yet change the dynamic, but noise around a takeover is quiet at present and all indications are that any investment would come in the summer anyway. It is possible United go through January without making a signing.’

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