Manchester United have switched their attention to Randal Kolo Muani, but his potential £85 million asking price could complicate the pursuit.
According to Football Insider, Manchester United have sounded out Eintracht Frankfurt about making a move for Randal Kolo Muani. The French striker has featured on their shortlist for a marquee forward. But his potential £85 million asking price could prove the sticking point.
Manchester United are yet to make their first summer signing, and the pressure continues to grow from the fanbase. Erik ten Hag has a clear idea of the position he needs to strengthen, including bringing a marquee striker in this window.
Ten Hag struggled last season without a proper marksman in his system. He wants to rely on something other than the inconsistent Anthony Martial, and there are doubts about whether Wout Weghorst will remain beyond June 30. Hence, they had extensively monitored some high-profile names before the season ended but were nowhere close to making headway.
They could not afford Harry Kane or Victor Osimhen, two of their primary targets before the campaign ended. They have looked at other names, such as Goncalo Ramos, but again, the price point sticks out as problematic. Each name is near or above the £100 million mark, effectively pricing them out.
There were links to Atalanta star Rasmus Hojlund, but ten Hag may not want to invest heavily in a young, inexperienced forward. Hence, they might revisit their interest in Randal Kolo Muani, as Eintracht Frankfurt are ready to sell for the right price.
With that, they want £85 million for the 23-goal attacker, which could pose a problem for Manchester United. There is ample justification for this price tag, as Kolo Muani also had 17 assists in all competitions last season.
It’s a tricky decision for Manchester United in their search for a marquee striker. Considering their other options like Hojlund, Kane and Osimhen, the Frenchman fits in the age category of the latter. He has a long-term future ahead and could prove worth the investment.
The question remains whether the Red Devils take the next step, having sounded out to Frankfurt about their intention. Kolo Muani could become a key signing, but there’s also interest from Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, with each of those European giants looking for a new number nine.
