With Anthony Martial dealing with a season ending injury, there is added spotlight on what Manchester United do at the striker position in the summer.
Patson Daka is an Erling Haaland alternative who could cost a fifth of the price the Dortmund star will cost. Austrian newspaper Salzburger Nachtricten reported last month United are interested.
Daka, 22, did his chances of a summer move no harm with a dazzling performance for Red Bull Salzburg against Sturm Graz at the weekend.
The Zambian striker scored a hat-trick inside the first 11 minutes of the game to set his side on the way to a 3-1 win.
All three goals came from open play, and Daka could have had a fourth in the second half, but missed a penalty.
Great record
Daka now has 23 goals in 19 league games for Red Bull Salzburg this season.
In all competitions he has 30 goals in 32 matches, and he also has five in his last three for Zambia.
Zambia failed to qualify for the AFCON last week, which means he won’t be called away mid-season for next January’s tournament.
United have to bring in a striker
Anthony Martial had been having a poor season even before his injury, netting only four Premier League goals.
That’s not an acceptable tally for the club’s number nine.
Whether Daka is the man, is an open question, and he would have impressed any watching scouts at the weekend.
United would still rather land his former teammate Erling Haaland, but some of the numbers beign associated with a potential deal look outrageous.
ESPN report Dortmund would want £150 million, and that’s before the wages, and commission agent Mino Raiola would want.
Taking a punt on a cheaper option like Daka could be smart, if United also buy well in other positions.
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