Recent reports have stated that Manchester United‘s primary transfer target Moussa Dembele has ruled out a January move.
According to reports in TalkSPORT, Manchester United sent scouts to watch the French striker in action at the semi-final of the Coupe de la Ligue. Dembele was impressive as he scored a goal in the 17th minute, and then again in the penalty shootout.
But that might not be of much use to Manchester United as Dembele has made his intentions of staying at Lyon for the rest of the season very clear.
“I am a Lyon player and I will remain so until the end of the season.
“I do not think that there will be a departure this winter. Lots of things are being said. It is up to me to ignore that and remain concentrated on the pitch,” Dembele was quoted as saying by talkSPORT.
Marcus Rashford is nursing a back injury that has ruled him out for at least a couple of months.
Another forward option, Anthony Martial has been very inconsistent. Hence, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is eager to bring in a striker as soon as possible. With Dembele pulling curtains to any deal involving him, Manchester United will have to look elsewhere.
Here are 3 alternatives that United can target:
#1 Raul Jimenez – Wolverhampton Wanderers
Manchester United do not have to look very far for a perfect goal-getter. They have a great option playing in the Premier League itself, in Raul Jimenez.
The Mexican forward has been immense for Wolves ever since he has stepped into Molineux. He impressed everyone last season with 17 goals from 44 games in all competitions.
If you think that was good, he has already topped it this season with 19 goals in 35 games. United need a player who can score week in week out, and Jimenez does just that.
His hold-up play is perfect, he can run at defences and pick a pass, so he would be the ideal player for Manchester United.
#2 Edinson Cavani – Paris Saint-Germain
Edinson Cavani is a cheaper alternative, but a great one if United are looking for a temporary fix. Cavani’s contract at PSG runs out this summer. Hence, he might be available for a cut-price deal.
The Uruguayan is still very much amongst the goals as he scored 23 goals last season, and has managed 5 already this season.
Though 32 now, Cavani might be good enough to wear the red shirt for a year or two, and would be the experience Manchester United’s young attack needs.
#3 Dries Mertens – Napoli
Dries Mertens is another player whose contract runs out this summer, so he too might be available for a low price.
The Belgian striker has been phenomenal for Napoli in the last seven seasons, and has made it clear that he wants a new challenge next season.
Mertens is always amongst the goals, and has scored 9 in just 20 games this season. Although he would be a different sort of option compared to the other two on this list, one thing he does guarantee is goals, so he would be a good option.
