Manchester United are keen on adding reinforcements this season, and their frontline is what needs the most work. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic and the financial crisis that had accompanied the virus, it may be difficult for the Red Devils to bring in their primary targets, meaning now they have to look at cheaper options.
Now Mirror is reporting that United are looking at Pietro Pellegri, who plies his trade at Monaco. The report further reveals that current Spurs manager José Mourinho had identified the player as a viable target for the club during his time at Old Trafford.
The profile of Pietro Pellegri
The Monaco star started his career at Genoa, where he joined the youth team. It was as early as 2016 that the 19-year-old made his debut in Serie A, at the age of 15. He also holds the record of being the first player to score in the Italian top-flight to be born in the 21st century. Monaco kept an eye on him and in the January transfer window of 2018, the French side made an offer for him which he could not refuse.
He even broke the record held by Mbappe of being the youngest player ever in Monaco’s history to represent them in Ligue 1. The Italy U-19 also scored for his side in August 2018, again becoming the first player to score in the French top-flight born in the 21st century.
His time at Monaco
While it seemed like things were going brilliantly for the starlet and there was no looking back for him, injuries played a spoilsport in the youngster’s development. He has missed a large part of the previous campaign due to injuries and has not been able to take part in any sort of football this season. However, things have improved right now, and after the resumption of football, the Italian would be in a position to be back on the field.
The forward has not been able to make more than six appearances for the club overall, three in the last two seasons, certainly a frustrating figure for the player. However, what is striking is the fact that despite such less gametime, a club like Man United are interested in securing his services.
What would he offer at Old Trafford?
The talent of the forward is undeniable, evident from the fact that he has attracted the interest of some of the best managers in the world. From what we have seen of Pellegri, he is a traditional number nine with a knack of being at the right place at the right time. He can get past his defenders with ease and is further capable of timing his runs to perfection to get ahead of his marker. An intelligent footballer, Pellegri is also extremely agile and swift, qualities which are essential in strikers.
Presently, the Monaco player could find a place on the substitute bench and make a rare appearance for the team when called upon to do so. However, with Rashford leading the line all alone for the Mancunians, Solskjær may decide on a two-man forward system next season, one which could prove to be a smashing success for the club, with the partnership of the Englishman and the Italian leading the way.
