It’s no secret Manchester United are low on strikers, and the situation was exacerbated by Anthony Martial’s injury last week.
Now the club are trying to make new additions during the final weeks of the transfer window, and a surprise name has been linked – Marko Arnautovic.
Italian newspaper Il Restino de Carlino, local to his current club Bologna, reports Manchester United have expressed interest in a move for the former West Ham forward.
Arnautovic reportedly has had his head turned by United’s interest, regarding it as an opportunity which may not come his way again.
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Manchester United make Marko Arnautovic bid
Il Restino de Carlino reports Arnautovic has asked Bologna to sell him to Manchester United, but the Italian side do not currently wish to do so.
Arnautovic is Bologna’s most high profile player and manager Giovanni Sartori recently labelled him as the only ‘non-transferable’ player in his squad. He didn’t see Manchester United’s interest coming, however.
Bologna are now worried Arnautovic will attempt to force a move, and acknowledge it is going to be difficult to keep him.
The Athletic also report United’s interest in Arnautovic, who would add depth to United’s options. The Red Devils have made an opening bid of £6.8 million.
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag and assistant coach Steve McClaren both worked with Arnautovic at FC Twente.
The Austrian international scored 14 goals in 32 games for Bologna last season.
He scored double figures in the Premier League in three consecutive seasons for Stoke City and West Ham earlier in his career.
As a depth option, Arnautovic would add cover and character to United’s squad. But the club should still be looking to sign a younger striker too.