JUST IN – Man United reach out to ‘phenomenon’ over move to Old Trafford

Manchester United is said to have spoken with the agents of Borussia Monchengladbach striker Marcus Thuram about a possible summer transfer.

While the Red Devils have not been afraid to spend large sums of money to lure new players to Old Trafford.

But, some behind-the-scenes information about United’s intentions to potentially sign a free agent this summer has emerged.

According to a recent report from Calciomercato (via Sport Witness), United is competing with Inter Milan and Juventus for the summer transfer of Thuram, who is poised to become a free agent at the conclusion of the season when his contract with Monchengladbach expires.

According to the article, while reduced tax rates may assist Italian clubs looking to sign Thuram, United, who have been in contact with Thuram’s representatives, may offer a superior financial package.

The 25-year-old, who has been characterized as a “physical phenomenon” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has scored 42 goals and provided 26 assists in 127 games across all competitions during his stint at the German club.

With 11 goals in 23 Bundesliga games this season, the France international has more shots on goal (71) and shots on target (36) than any other player in the league, giving him the highest rate of shots on target per 90 minutes (1.69) in the league.

Given that there are five Premier League clubs with a higher rate of shots on target per 90 minutes than United (5.08) this season, a signing for Thuram could be just what Erik ten Hag needs to make his side more dangerous in front of goal.

Also, with Wout Weghorst’s loan spell at Old Trafford likely to expire at the end of the season, the Monchengladbach star might be a potential long-term replacement for the Dutchman, who has failed to score a Premier League goal for United.

Moving forward, we believe that once the summer transfer window opens, United should make Thuram a decent offer that will entice him to join Ten Hag’s team and demonstrate what he is capable of doing in English football’s top division.