Reports (Daily Star) earlier this week had emerged that Tottenham Hotspur could make a £50m move for former Manchester United attacker Memphis Depay. The Dutchman has been thriving for French heavyweights Lyon ever since his move from United in the January of 2017.
Explained: How Manchester United can sign Depay?
The Red Devils were not able to implant a buy-back clause for Depay as such deals aren’t allowed in French football. However, United do have an option to match any offer another club is willing to make. Lyon’s Sporting Director recently went on to reveal that United will be the first in line to sign him if they are eager to match an offer made by another prospective suitor.
Sporting director Juninho said, ”Manchester United has the priority if several clubs line up to buy him. But we have not received any offers so far. He is really happy right now in Lyon. Rudi (Garcia) will soon make his decision. He is a technical leader. We will discuss an extension of contract by the end of the year.”
Therefore if Tottenham puts in a bid of say £50m and Lyon are happy with that kind of fee, then United will have the chance first to match that offer. If they go on to match it then, the Ligue 1 attacker will move to Manchester United provided personal terms are met.
Depay has been in terrific form this season as he has 11 goals in all competitions this so far. However, Lyon are struggling as a team as they are languishing on the 14th spot on the table.
Should United look to sign Depay?
Solskjær went on to ship away Lukaku, and Alexis Sanchez in the summer and United have looked short on attacking options. Depay is primarily a left-winger, but he has been thriving in a central role as well for his club and country. United are at their best when they play on the counter, and for that, they could do with a winger cum striker like Depay who can stretch play with his pace and make runs between the lines from the shoulder of the defenders.
The Red Devils have lacked the creativity to break down teams that like to sit back and defend in numbers, and someone like Depay can create something out of nothing. His first stint at United indeed failed, and the team management might be sceptical of bringing him back. However, the Dutch star has improved in the last two years, and United can do with an explosive player like Depay in their roster.
