“The strikers we have are not what we need. We need attackers like Wayne Rooney and Christiano Ronaldo. The only player that plays like them are in Italy. I recommended him to the staffs a d they all loved him immediately, which means we are going to sign him”- Man Utd ‘step up’ bid to sign January transfer target after ‘personal recommendation from Ruud van Nistelrooy’
Manchester United have reportedly ramped up their efforts to secure a top striker, based on advice from assistant manager Ruud van Nistelrooy.
The 48-year-old van Nistelrooy, a club legend, returned to Manchester United earlier this summer amid speculation he might replace head coach Erik ten Hag. Since his return, the former Dutch international has been closely involved in working with the team’s forwards, particularly Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee. Despite these efforts, concerns about the team’s attacking depth have grown, especially after Anthony Martial’s departure during the summer transfer window.
Manager Erik ten Hag has experimented with different tactical setups, even going as far as to deploy Bruno Fernandes, the club’s captain, in a false nine role as he searches for the best offensive strategy. Although United made several signings this summer—such as Leny Yoro, Matthijs De Ligt, Manuel Ugarte, Noussair Mazraoui, and Zirkzee—strengthening the attacking line remains a primary concern for the club.
According to *Football Transfers*, Manchester United have now made headway in their pursuit of Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic, a move driven by van Nistelrooy’s recommendation. Vlahovic, who had previously attracted interest from Arsenal before signing with Juventus in January 2022, has also been linked with United in the past.
While United opted to sign Hojlund during the summer transfer window, there remains a strong desire to further bolster the squad’s attacking options. Vlahovic has made an impressive start to the current season, netting two goals in his first three matches under Juventus’ new coach, Thiago Motta. The 24-year-old Serbian striker, who has earned 30 international caps, has built a solid reputation in European football, especially following his standout performances with Fiorentina before moving to Juventus.
Despite Vlahovic’s previous statements expressing his satisfaction at Juventus, his future could take a turn if Manchester United intensifies their interest. Vlahovic still has two years remaining on his contract with the Italian giants, but the situation is fluid. In a December 2023 interview with Italian media, Vlahovic remarked, “I have two and a half years left on my contract, there’s no rush, but Giuntoli and my agent are already in discussions. I’m very happy here.”
Adding to the intrigue, Federico Chiesa, Vlahovic’s former teammate at Juventus, made a high-profile move to the Premier League recently, joining Liverpool during the summer. This transfer could influence Vlahovic’s decision should Manchester United continue their pursuit of him.
