Manchester United Plotting Move For This £20m Tottenham Forward: Does He Fit The Bill At Old Trafford?

Recent reports from The Daily Mail claim that Erik Ten Hag is considering making Tottenham Hotspur’s Steven Bergwijn his first signing when he takes over at Manchester United.

Although the news might surprise some fans, Ten Hag has been a long-term admirer of the Dutch international, even trying to lure him to Ajax over the last couple of transfer windows. But Spurs blocked the 24-year-old’s exit after a couple of encouraging performances.

Having started only once, Bergwijn has slipped down the pecking order ever since Dejan Kulusevski’s arrival from Juventus. However, he looks destined to leave Tottenham this summer, and the Red Devils might have to pay a fee in the region of £20million to secure his services. His £100k-a-week wages aren’t going to be an issue at Old Trafford either.

Having come through the ranks at Dutch club PSV Eindhoven, Bergwijn signed for Tottenham Hotspur for a fee in the region of £27m. With just eight goals and ten assists in 78 appearances across all competitions, it would be fair to say that he has struggled to adjust to his life in the Premier League.

Even this season, the numbers he has put up on the board aren’t impressive either – averaging 0.9 shots, 0.4 key passes, 0.5 dribbles, and 0.1 crosses per 90 minutes in the English top-flight. Capable of playing across the front line, it remains to be seen if Bergwijn possesses the tools to flourish in Ten Hag’s system.

Does He Fit The Bill At Old Trafford?

Marcus Rashford has been in terrible form over the past few months, whereas it’s highly likely that Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard will depart the club in the summer. Juan Mata’s contract expires at the end of the season, while Mason Greenwood remains suspended until further notice after being arrested on suspicion of rape and assault.

Given the circumstances, Manchester United need some fresh recruitments in the attacking department if they intend to strengthen the present squad, but Bergwijn doesn’t completely fit the criteria. Already 24, he has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter under Antonio Conte’s stewardship. Hence, it would be better if the club went after younger and more reliable options for the rebuild.

(Stats from WhoScored)