Javier Hernandez says £40m Manchester United target is a ‘special’ striker

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Manchester United are being linked with a ‘special’ centre-forward in Feyenoord frontman Santiago Gimenez, according to the club’s former Premier League favourite Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez.

While Erik ten Hag’s toothless frontline laboured through yet another game without even threatening a goal – drawing a blank again during that Champions League exit at the hands of Bayern Munich – Santiago Gimenez is certainly finding things a lot easier than Rasmus Hojlund and co in the final third.

The 2023 Eredivisie champion has hit the target a remarkable 20 times in just 19 games this season.

Manchester United have already sent scouts to watch Gimenez in action, per The Mirror. And the Red Devils may be tempted to test Feyenoord’s resolve as Marcus Rashford and Antony continue to toil in front of goal.

Gimenez would become only the second Mexican ever to wear the iconic Man United shirt. But, if the stylish 22-year-old could emulate Hernandez’s immediate impact at Old Trafford, then he would be £40 million very well spent.

Manchester United eye Feyenoord striker Santiago Gimenez

“That player not only has a goal (in him) – which is something very valuable and hard to find – he also has the charm and charisma that makes him special,” Hernandez, who broke the 20-goal barrier in his debut season with United, tells AS.

“Sometimes, it’s something genetic, but you also have to develop it. He has a lot to learn, obviously, because he’s very young. And he is experiencing things that will toughen him as a player and as a person. In the national team and also in Europe.

“He has that desire to keep learning, not just to achieve more things.

“Everything he is achieving is a great honour, for me. And I believe ‘Bebote’ can accomplish things that very few people in Mexico think he can achieve.”

20 goals in 19 games

In addition to Gimenez, Manchester United are also keeping tabs on Santos’ Marcos Leonardo with Ivan Toney likely to be too expensive during the winter window. Brentford value the England international at an eye-watering £100 million.