According to a recent report by the Independent, Manchester United are considering orchestrating a move to bring Juventus forward Mario Mandzukic to Old Trafford during the January transfer window. The same source has mentioned that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is keen on strengthening his squad this winter and has identified the Croatian frontman as an ideal candidate to ease his goal-scoring concerns at the Theatre of Dreams.
Mandzukic’s Incredible Career In European Football
The 33-year-old is yet make an appearance for Juve this season. However, Mandzukic was a vital member of the Turin side in the previous term when he netted ten goals and grabbed seven assists in 33 matches for the Serie A giants across all competitions.
The veteran striker is also vastly experienced at the international level, having made a total of 89 appearances for Croatia while scoring 33 goals for his homeland thus far. He was also a part of the famous Croatia squad that managed to reach the final of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia last summer.
Mandzukic is a proven goal-scorer in European football, but he is currently experiencing the twilight years of his playing career. Thus, Man United should only look to sign him on a short-term deal as he will be a temporary fix to their goal-scoring problems.
What Will The 2018 FIFA World Cup Finalist Bring To Old Trafford?
Mandzukic boasts incredible strength which makes him such a commanding presence in the offensive end of the field. He can hold the ball up well for his teammates and can be a dominating figure inside the opposition penalty box. The Croatian forward can head the ball with a lot of power and accuracy, which allows him to score so many goals in the final third. However, father time is catching up to him so he might struggle to physically compete in the Premier League this late in his career.
The acquisition of an experienced goal-getter like Mandzukic could help the Red Devils earn a top 4 place in the English top-flight at the end of this campaign. The Croatia international will not only add more goals to Solskjaer’s frontline but will also improve the overall depth of the Man United squad.
Hence, Ed Woodward and co. should try everything in their power to secure the services of Mandzukic when the transfer window reopens in January.