Erik ten Hag ‘favours signing three forwards’ ahead of Man Utd target Joao Felix
Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix was once deemed the hottest prospect in European football, but nowadays he doesn’t even make the top three of Erik ten Hag’s transfer wish-list.
The Manchester United boss is keen to bolster his attacking options, particularly in light of Cristiano Ronaldo’s latest temper tantrum throwing further doubt on whether the 37-year-old will remain at the club beyond January. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has grown tired of being seen as surplus to requirements in the eyes of Ten Hag.
Their relationship hit a new low last week when Ronaldo refused to come on during the last knockings of the 2-0 home win over Tottenham and instead chose to storm down the Old Trafford tunnel minutes before the full-time whistle had been blown.
In turn, Ten Hag decided to temporarily exile Ronaldo from the first-team fold, forcing him to train alone in the build-up to Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Chelsea – a game the forward was not in the side for as part of his punishment.
The whole sorry saga has only confirmed what many already knew in that Ten Hag and Ronaldo simply aren’t fit to last long-term. As a result, the Dutchman’s search for a replacement striker is already underway with the January transfer window only around the corner.
Ronaldo’s fellow countryman Felix was touted as a potential option and there is every chance the 2019 recipient of the ‘Golden Boy’ award would be keen on the switch considering his own struggles under Diego Simeone at Atletico.
However, Ten Hag is rumorued to favour a more goal-hungry, traditional striker as opposed to a forward who can be utilised in a number of different roles but is less likely to find the net at an impressive rate.
The three figures rumoured to be in the sights of the United boss are Lille’s Jonathan David, Bayer Leverkusen talisman Patrik Schick and Lyon star Moussa Dembele.
While none of the aforementioned trio are arguably as much of a glamourous option as Felix, if Ten Hag feels they are better suited tactically then United could reap the benefits.
United’s recruitment has been questionable in recent years, but Ten Hag appears clear and concise in what he wants – even if they aren’t always the biggest names around.
For too long under multiple managers United’s dressing room has been plagued with reports of ego clashes and unprofessional behaviour.
Ten Hag must now be trusted by those above him in the hierarchy to bring in players he feels can contribute positively both on and off the pitch.
