According to journalist Enzo Bucchioni, as cited by Lancs Live, Manchester United have made contact with Mario Mandzukic. The Juventus striker has already told his current employers that he has been in touch with the Premier League outfit and has already snubbed a move to Qatar, in hopes of sealing a move to England in January.
United’s struggles in the offensive department
Manchester United made a lot of changes to their attacking department in the summer, notably getting rid of Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Sanchez. They brought in Daniel James from Swansea City – one of the most promising young talents in Britain.
The Welshman has fared rather well, scoring three goals in six matches. But, the lack of a fully-fledged number nine has had an impact on United’s overall potency in attack. Manager Ole-Gunnar Solskjaer has primarily used the duo of Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford.
They have collectively scored five goals so far this season. However, both strikers are currently injured, which will likely force Solskjaer to rely on the services of the inexperienced Mason Greenwood or play Jesse Lingard as a makeshift number nine.
Besides, it’s probably fair to point out that both Martial and Rashford are better suited to play on the flanks due to their pace. Therefore, the Red Devils should focus on signing a centre-forward in the upcoming January transfer window.
Can Manduzkic solve their attacking problems?
Mandzukic is currently one of Europe’s most experienced strikers, having enjoyed successful spells at Bayern Munich, VfL Wolfsburg and Juventus.
However, he has struggled at Juve, of late, following the arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo. Additionally, Gonzalo Higuain returned from loan at Chelsea this summer and has been doing well since then. As a result, Mandzukic has found himself well behind the pecking order.
At the same time, the Croatia international is still a lethal striker, having netted 44 goals for Juventus despite his lack of game-time at Turin in recent years. In addition to his finishing prowess, the veteran forward is also known for his aggression and physicality – making him an ideal fit for the Premier League.
How will Mandzukic fit into the United setup?
In James, Rashford and Martial, Manchester United have players who can use their pace to cause problems for the opposition on the break. Mandzukic, in that regard, is an ideal player to have, especially when adopting a counter-attacking system.
The 33-year-old often gets into the right place at the right time and converts chances with ease. Mandzukic will be a welcome addition to the squad, at least until the Red Devils find someone younger and more versatile.
