Manchester United is finally on the brink of making a significant attacking reinforcement in the summer transfer market.
The British 'Daily Mail' reported on the 25th (Korean time) that "Manchester United is pursuing a swap deal involving Rasmus Hojlund (22), who has been struggling. It is likely that they will acquire Ademola Lookman, the protagonist of the Europa League final hat-trick, on the condition of returning him to his former club Atalanta."
Hojlund joined Manchester United last season for a transfer fee of £72 million (approximately 137 billion won), but he has only managed a disappointing three goals in 28 league matches this season. He was substituted after 70 minutes in the match against Wolverhampton Wanderers, and legendary striker Alan Shearer described him as "a damaged player who has completely lost his confidence."
Nonetheless, manager Ruben Amorim has used him as his first option throughout the season. However, Manchester United's Chonbang is in a situation where rebuilding is unavoidable. Lookman was a key player who led the Europa League victory in Italy, and he was selected as the African Player of the Year, including his hat-trick in the final. He also has rich experience in the Premier League (Everton, Fulham, Leicester).
Recently, Lookman, whose relationship with Atalanta has soured, has a high possibility of transfer, and Manchester United has been closely monitoring his situation. In fact, the scouting team has consistently checked on Lookman, and it is reported that they are also in contact with his agent.
In addition, Manchester United has already been in discussions with Matheus Cunha. 'Sky Sports' reported that "Manchester United is close to signing Cunha from Wolverhampton and has already made significant progress in negotiations on terms." Cunha's buyout amount is £62.5 million (approximately 119 billion won), and while many European clubs and Saudi clubs are interested, the most proactive team is undoubtedly Manchester United.
Cunha has made 26 goals and 11 assists in 60 matches for Wolverhampton and is a multi-resource capable of covering the entire attacking area. He is evaluated as a type that fits Amorim's tactical philosophy, possessing explosive breaks, concise finishes, and vigorous activity.
There are also drawbacks. Injury history, inconsistent performance, and mental management issues due to somewhat aggressive competitiveness remain points of concern. However, Manchester United legend Gary Neville supported the acquisition of Cunha, stating that he is "a player worth taking the risk on."
He continued, "Players like Wayne Rooney, Eric Cantona, and Carlos Tevez were not perfect in terms of personality, but they brought something special to the team. Cunha is that type of player too," he said.
Cunha is also looking positively at the possibility of joining Manchester United. According to Sky Sports, "Cunha assesses Manchester United as one of the best clubs in the world and doesn’t care about the current ranking (14th)." He added, "He loves United."
Lookman and Cunha. Manchester United's attempt to simultaneously acquire attackers with tactical flexibility and decisiveness reveals a clear identity under the Amorim system. Considering the PSR (financial sustainability regulations) flexibility as well, there is ample possibility that the actual transfers will take place.
The use of the struggling Hojlund's 'swap deal', rebuilding of wing attacking resources, and Manchester United's efforts in the summer restructuring indicate that this transfer market may not just be a simple reinforcement but a 'redefinition of attack' for a resurgence.
[OSEN]