What’s the story?
Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho is finally close to sealing the deal for Torino striker Andrea Belotti. The Italian has been in fine form in the Serie A and is one of the most talented strikers in world football at the moment. With Zlatan Ibrahimovic out injured until January and Rashford only 19, Mourinho is keen to sign a quality striker and he is ready to trigger the £84 million release clause in Belotti’s contract.
While Manchester United’s primary target is Antoine Girezmann, it looks increasingly unlikely that the Frenchman would join the Premier League giants this summer and Mourinho is desperate to add some depth and quality to the United front line.
Also read: Reports: Manchester United close to completing deal for £60m Real Madrid superstar Alvaro Morata
In case you didn’t know...
The Torino striker has been in scintillating form this season and he has already scored 27 goals in 32 games. A muscular forward and full of quality, Belotti is similar in style to Didier Drogba and Mourinho is said to be extremely keen on playing with a proper target man especially with Zlatan’s future now looking increasingly uncertain at United.
The heart of the matter
Wayne Rooney’s powers have declined considerably while Marcus Rashford is extremely good but still only 19. With United expected to participate in multiple positions, Mourinho will be desperate to add some quality to his front line.
The Portuguese manager is also interested in signing Real Madrid forward Morata and United are determined to form a fearsome attack line once again. According to reports, the only thing stopping the deal is Belotti’s high release clause with United keen on signing the striker for around £65 million.
What’s next?
While Manchester United have a lot of plans for the summer transfer window, a lot will depend on whether the Red Devils qualify to the Champions League next season. Mourinho is keen on forging a squad full of superstars and for that, United will have to perform to their highest possible level in the business end of the season.
Also read: Giving up is not an option - Injured United star Ibrahimovic vows to return
Author’s take
Belotti is one of the most talented young strikers in world football at the moment, but an asking price of £84 million is a bit too much for the 23-year-old. Manchester United should ideally look for other alternatives or try to convince Torino to sell their prized asset for a lesser price.
