Recent reports from Spanish media outlet COPE suggest that Manchester United are keen on signing RCD Espanyol striker Raul de Tomas in the ongoing transfer window as Erik Ten Hag looks set to add to his attacking options before the deadline day.
‘New chapter in the Raúl De Tomás case. The Espanyol striker, who did not travel to Vigo with the parakeets, is in the orbit of Manchester United with the club with which negotiations are open, according to COPE journalist Pedro Morata. De Tomás is not the only option for the Reds, but there is interest in the Blue and White striker. At the moment, the possible transfer is between 25 and 30 million euros if the interest advances.’ – The translated version of the report stated.
With a reported release clause of €70 million in his contract, Sevilla are also keen on securing his services.
Having come through the ranks at Real Madrid, Raul de Tomas joined Espanyol in the winter of 2020 for a fee in the region of £13.5 million. With 45 goals and six assists in 89 appearances in all competitions, it would be fair to say that the last four years have been quite productive for the 27-year-old striker. Last term, the Spaniard found the back of the net seventeen times to help Espanyol retain the top-flight status upon their return to La Liga. Despite a gigantic release clause, the Catalan club will demand around €25-30 million from interested parties to let go of his services.
Good Choice For Ten Hag?
Anthony Martial and Cristiano Ronaldo were supposed to be Manchester United’s options in the striker’s department for the season; however, a hamstring injury to the former has left them with only one centre-forward – who too wishes to leave the club if a suitable offer comes in.
The interest in 33-year-old Marko Arnautovic died out quickly following a fan backlash, whereas Benjamin Sesko opted for a move to RB Leipzig in 2023. While names like Sasa Kalajdzic, Cody Gakpo and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang are also on United’s wish list, there has been no significant development on any of them yet.
The need for an attacking addition is evident from their position in the league table. De Tomas could be an immediate solution to Manchester United’s goalscoring problems. With very little time left, the Red Devils have no option but to pursue him.
