Manchester United have been linked with a move for Eintracht Frankfurt forward Sebastien Haller.
The Red Devils have picked out the 24-year-old Frenchman as an alternative for Romelu Lukaku in case the Belgian International decides to leave for Inter Milan in the summer, it has been claimed by the Daily Mail.
With Antonio Conte at the helm of the Serie A side, Lukaku is likely to make the move having earlier described his intention to play in Italy.
Haller, who still has two years left on his Frankfurt contract, managed 20 goals and 12 assists in 41 matches across all competitions for the side.
Sebastien Haller would be a good replacement for Lukaku
In terms of his physique, he would be a like for like replacement. With a 6ft 2in stature, Haller can hold up the ball, and has an immaculate ability to link up with his teammates, something that has synced in well with Eintracht Frankfurt coach Adi Hütter’s tactics.
Haller’s tall frame also allows him to have an advantage over an opponent when it comes to aerial duels, with the French-born forward averaging 6.6 aerial duels won per game.
The 24-year old’s key passes and through balls in the attacking phase of the game are also a threat to opposing defences. The right-footed striker managed an average of 1.3 key passes per game, and possesses the ability to finish with both feet.
However, Haller, who will turn 25 later in the month, has to improve in certain areas be considered a top centre-forward.
His passing has been a major let down, as he managed a pass accuracy of just 64.8%, something that needs to improve as he can’t lose the ball too frequently against teams in the Premier League who like to break.
Lukaku had a sub-par season last time, and failed not only in terms of his goal-scoring, but also his overall contribution to the team as his hold up play left a lot to be desired, and his first touch often let him down. Haller, in that regard, could be a breath of fresh air.
The Frenchman has managed to score goals consistently in the last few seasons, and is in the right age to move to Old Trafford and replace Lukaku.
Stat Courtesy: Transfermarkt, Whoscored