08 January 2023 , 10:08
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Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag is the driving force behind a deal for Wout Weghorst, with the Red Devils closing in on the Dutch forward.
The United chief is desperate to add to his attacking options this month following the exit of Cristiano Ronaldo. Replacing the Portuguese superstar has been easier said than done however, with funds at Old Trafford being limited - despite getting Ronaldo off the books.
Loan deals have been touted between now and the end of the campaign with the likes of Vincent Aboubakar, Memphis Depay and Joao Felix having all been mentioned. A surprise option has emerged in Dutch striker Weghorst, despite the striker being in the midst of a loan deal with Turkish giants Besiktas.
A deal is somewhat complicated to negotiate with the Red Devils required to hold talks with both Burnley and Besiktas in an effort to secure his services. Bestikas are seeking compensation to cut short his season long loan deal.
But Ten Hag is extremely keen on bringing in his giant compatriot, despite his struggles at Turf Moor last term. He believes he can bring some much needed physicality and natural aggression to an attack that needs to be bolstered following Ronaldo’s departure.
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Additionally, as per The Athletic, the striker’s attitude is something that United's scouting team have been impressed by. He prides himself on being among the fittest players among teammates, while character assessments have suggested that he has a driving desire to improve - aspects that will certainly be useful under the tutelage of Ten Hag.
Weghorst also developed a r eputation as a relentless presser during his time with German outfit Wolfsburg, again something that will come in handy at Old Trafford with Ten Hag attempting to introduce an intense pressing style since his arrival from Ajax. Despite the benefits of bringing the towering forward to Old Trafford, United have already been sent a message by Besiktas.
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The Turkish club’s sporting director Ceyhun Kazancı has questioned why the striker seemingly bid farewell to the club’s fans and has said in no uncertain terms that he will not be leaving unless his side are compensated. As quoted by Fanatik, he said: “I don’t understand why Weghorst said goodbye to the fans, why he made such a move.
“He is our football player right now. Our contract expires at the end of the season.
“If Manchester United or any other team wants Wegnorst, they will meet with Burnley anyway. Burnley will then contact us and discuss the terms of separation. If we accept, the contract will be terminated.
“Otherwise, it will go on until the end of the season. He can’t just go. There will have to be a reward for us to approve the separation.
“I’ll give an example. Burnley told us, ‘We made a deal with this team for Weghorst. We give you half of the transfer fee.’ This may be a different condition. Then we’ll sit down and talk.”
Weghorst, 30, has scored 10 goals in 21 appearances for Besiktas thus far this term.