Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that a shock move is now closing in and Manchester United fans may feel like the club should have swooped in.
Manchester United are ramping up their efforts to strengthen their attack this summer after a disappointing 2024/25 season, which saw them finish 15th in the Premier League and suffer defeat in the Europa League final.
Goalscoring was a major issue, with Bruno Fernandes finishing as the top scorer on just 19 goals. Amad and Alejandro Garnacho each contributed 11, but no player managed to surpass the 20-goal mark.
To address their offensive shortcomings, United have turned to the transfer market. Matheus Cunha has completed a £62.5 million move to Old Trafford, and Bryan Mbeumo is also on the verge of joining.
Ruben Amorim continues to assess central striker options, though one potential signing is now off the table following Liam Delap’s transfer to Chelsea.
Shock move closing in – Romano
It has been widely reported that Jhon Duran is planning to leave Al-Nassr this summer, despite only joining the Saudi Pro League club in January.
Duran was considered one of the most promising young forwards in England prior to his departure from Aston Villa. The 21-year-old has netted 49 goals in his professional career so far, including 24 last season alone.
United had been long-time admirers of Duran and were keen on signing him for just £10 million from Chicago Fire before he ultimately made the move to Villa Park in 2023.
Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Al-Nassr have given the green light for Duran to depart the club and that it is ‘definitely over’ for him at the Saudi side.
But the Italian journalist has explained that Fenerbahçe are the ones closing in on a deal and are close to agreeing terms to bring the young striker into Jose Mourinho’s team.
United should have moved for Duran
The striker market is not that strong this summer and United’s initial first-choice was Delap, partly due to his age and Premier League experience.
Duran is younger and provided more quality in England’s top flight before his Villa exit and would have been a perfect option for Amorim’s side.
The only concern seemed to be that Al-Nassr were only willing to let him leave on loan but it now seems like a permanent deal is on the cards.
While his wages at the Saudi side exceed £300,000-a-week, Duran was only earning £75,000-a-week at Villa Park and you would think a potential compromise could have at least been discussed.
United will continue looking at their options for that striker position but it feels like Duran would hhave been a very good player to consider.
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