Manchester United are reportedly eyeing a £50 million January transfer for West Ham United forward Marko Arnautovic to spark their charge for a top four finish
According to a report by Daily Mirror, Manchester United have reignited their interest in Marko Arnautovic. The Red Devils are ready to splash around £50 million to land the West Ham United forward, who recently admitted his desire to compete for trophies at a bigger club.
Arnautovic has been an underrated genius in Premier League football, having been a stalwart for Stoke City for four years before quickly establishing himself as a key figure for West Ham United. Last season, the Austrian international was perhaps the single biggest reason why the Hammers avoided relegation, and he has started the current campaign decently as well.
With five goals and an assist in 11 Premier League appearances, Arnautovic has been the most prolific contributor for West Ham. But, recent comments suggesting he would be open to a move away from the London Stadium has piqued the interest of suitors, with Manchester United reigniting their interest in him.
Jose Mourinho has a gamut of top class forwards at his disposal at Old Trafford. But, Manchester United are still performing well short of desired levels in the final third. As a result, they are set to enter the market in the January transfer window with a view to bolstering their attack.
In particular, Romelu Lukaku has struggled considerably in front of goal – the Belgian has just four goals in 16 appearances this season, and last scored at Old Trafford in March. Arnautovic is thus, a viable target, who could offer Manchester United the alternative to Lukaku, should his struggles continue.
Alternatively, the 29-year-old could even play on the right flank, potentially making him a solid stopgap solution for Mourinho. And, Manchester United are set to follow up their interest in Arnautovic with a bid worth around £50 million to secure his services.
The figure is close to asking price that was reported in the summer, suggesting Manchester United would fancy their chances of landing the Austrian forward. The report also claims that the player would be open to making a switch to Old Trafford, which further enhances the Red Devils’ chances.
However, it has been reported that Chelsea hold an interest in Arnautovic as well, and it will be interesting to see if they lodge a bid of their own. For now, Manchester United look like the favourites to sign the West Ham forward, should they make an offer in the winter.
