According to a recent report by The Daily Mail, Manchester United have made a late enquiry over Bournemouth striker Josh King’s availability in this transfer window. However, the same source has also claimed that the Cherries are refusing to part ways with their prized asset despite the Red Devils looking to acquire his services before Friday’s transfer deadline. The Norwegian speedster used to play for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer during his time with the Man United reserves, and it is believed that Solskjaer is still a big admirer of King’s talent.
King’s Mediocre Form For Bournemouth This Season
The Oslo-born forward enjoyed a fantastic campaign at the Vitality Stadium last season as he formed one of the most prolific striking partnerships with Callum Wilson up top. However, he has had a dip in form this term as he has struggled to earn a regular run of first-team opportunities under Eddie Howe’s tutelage.
King has only managed to feature in 17 matches for the Cherries in this campaign, scoring three goals while providing two assists across all competitions. He has averaged 0.8 tackles, 1.1 shots, 1.1 key passes and 2.3 dribbles per game in the Premier League (stats via whoscored).
The 28-year-old has also earned 46 senior caps for the Norwegian national side and has scored 17 goals for his country in the process.
What Will The Norwegian Goal-Getter Bring To The Theatre Of Dreams?
King boasts blistering pace and can make some penetrative dribbles with the ball when running the channels up top. He enjoys the freedom of operating as a centre-forward and benefits from interchanging passes with others around him. The European sensation has gradually transformed himself into a lethal finisher in the final third but has lacked consistency in terms of his performances this season.
The acquisition of a promising goal-scorer like King will be a massive coup for the Red Devils if they can find a way to get the deal done this month or next summer. He could thrive with the opportunity to play under his countrymen, Solskjaer’s stewardship at Old Trafford.
Should Man United Sign King At Any Cost?
It is no secret that Man United are in dire need of a new forward following the injury to Marcus Rashford. Both Anthony Martial and Mason Greenwood have been carrying most of the goal-scoring workload at the Theatre of Dreams this season. The Red Devils striking duo could use some help when leading the charge up top and so King fits the bill perfectly. Solskjaer should consider splashing the cash on acquiring the signature of King before the transfer window slams shut later tonight.
