In a recent report, Manchester Evening News has revealed that former Manchester United target Moussa Dembele is open to leaving Olympique Lyonnais this summer. The French striker was a subject of interest from the Red Devils last year with the player now refusing to rule out a summer move away from Lyon, but sources close to him have stated that ‘he is not desperate to move’ (via Manchester Evening News).
Dembele’s Impressive Goal-Scoring Record In French Football
The Pontoise-born frontman enjoyed another majestic goal-scoring season for the French outfit as he produced a series of match-altering performances as a crucial component of Rudi Garcia’s frontline. Dembele banged in 24 goals and grabbed seven assists in 46 appearances for the Ligue 1 club in the previous campaign across multiple competitions.
The ex-Celtic striker managed to average 1.3 shots, 0.6 key passes and 1.1 dribbles per 90 minutes in the UEFA Champions League last season. However, he was guilty of giving away the ball too many times as he ended up with a pass completion rate of 67.7% in European football (stats via whoscored).
At the moment, the 24-year-old is playing some of the best football of his young career, so Man United should consider reigniting their interest in recruiting him in this off-season. However, Dembele would be better off going to a club where he will be guaranteed regular game time rather than play as a back-up to Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford at Old Trafford next season.
What Will The French Attacker Bring To The Table?
Dembele can pull off some speedy runs in behind the opponent’s backline and is usually a composed finisher in front of goal. He can read the game well and excels at getting himself into the open spaces in between the opposition centre-backs. The Frenchman can shoot the ball with a lot of power and possesses the strength to outmuscle his marker and hold possession up the field for his team. He has even got a great leap in him that allows him to net a few headed goals in the final third.
Should The Red Devils Snap Dembele Up This Summer?
A prolific goal-getter like Dembele will no doubt improve Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s squad depth at the Theatre of Dreams if Man United decide to seal a move for him this summer. His pace and goal-threat will make him an ideal back-up option for Martial and Rashford up top. The French centre-forward is quite consistent with his goal-scoring which qualifies him to compete for a first-team place at Manchester. However, there are some concerns over whether he will be able to adjust himself to the physicality and high intensity of English football.
Solskjaer also risks hampering the growth of Mason Greenwood if he adds Dembele to his squad before the transfer slams shut in October. At 24, the Lyon star has his best years ahead of him, so the Red Devils will be able to build for the long-run if they can snap him up in this off-season.
