Taking the advice of assistant manager Ruud van Nistelrooy, Manchester United has reportedly intensified its search for a top striker. This move comes as a direct response to his recommendation.
Van Nistelrooy, now 48 and a club legend, returned to Manchester United earlier this summer amid speculation he might succeed Erik ten Hag as head coach. Since rejoining, he has been working closely with the club’s forwards, especially Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee. However, concerns about the team’s attacking depth have grown, particularly following Anthony Martial’s departure to another club during the summer transfer window.
In his quest for the most effective offensive strategy, manager Erik ten Hag has experimented with various tactical formations. He has even deployed club captain Bruno Fernandes in a false nine position. Despite several summer signings, including Leny Yoro, Matthijs De Ligt, Manuel Ugarte, Noussair Mazraoui, and Zirkzee, enhancing the attacking options remains a top priority for the club.
Reports from Football Transfers indicate that Manchester United has made strides in pursuing Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic, largely driven by van Nistelrooy’s counsel. Vlahovic, who previously attracted Arsenal’s interest before joining Juventus in January 2022, has also been linked with United.
Moreover, despite securing Hojlund during the summer, there remains a strong inclination to bolster the squad’s attacking options. Vlahovic has had a solid start to the season, netting two goals in his first three matches under new Juventus coach Thiago Motta. The 24-year-old Serbian forward has established a notable reputation in European football, particularly due to his impressive performances with Fiorentina before his move to Juventus.
Although Vlahovic has indicated he is happy at Juventus, the prospect of a shift in his future could arise if Manchester United intensifies its interest. He still has two years remaining on his contract with the Italian side, but the situation remains dynamic. In a December 2023 interview, Vlahovic noted, “I have two and a half years left on my contract, there’s no rush, but Giuntoli and my agent are already in discussions. The place makes me very happy.”
Adding to the intrigue, Federico Chiesa, a former teammate of Vlahovic at Juventus, made a high-profile transfer to Liverpool this summer. If Manchester United continues to pursue Vlahovic, this move may influence his decision regarding his future.