The Red Devils may be able to get their own version of a rival’s star.
Manchester United will need to act swiftly if they want to sign a transfer target from a rival, even if it is to replace one of their best players.
Is Mohammed Kudus on his way to Manchester United?
While links have been few since that March report, they could rekindle their ambition to recruit Erik ten Hag’s former star in order to keep their competitors from improving.
Surprisingly, the 22-year-old’s arrival at Old Trafford might present United with their own version of the Blues’ new star man, Christopher Nkunku.
However, the estimated £40 million price tag could be a stumbling issue for a club that has already spent heavily this summer and is expected to prioritize a new striker.
How talented is Mohammed Kudus?
Last season was a true breakout year for the dynamic young ace, whose World Cup performances made people sit up and take notice of how influential he had been for his team. Despite their group-stage exit, he retained a 7.70 average rating, scoring twice in three games, according to Sofascore.
Kudus had impressed even during the 2021/22 season, but his seven goal contributions paled in comparison to the most recent 18 goals and seven assists across all competitions.
It’s possible that’s why the clientele has switched from Everton last summer to some of England’s European contenders now.
The mystical maestro’s ability to float into numerous roles, appearing on either flank or right behind the striker, is what would naturally draw similarities to Nkunku.
After all, the Frenchman had a fantastic season with RB Leipzig as a shadow striker right off the number nine. With 23 goals and nine assists in all competitions, he has had one of his best goalscoring and creative seasons, but it is still a far cry from the 55 goal contributions he had the previous year.
If Ten Hag wants to reunite with Kudus, he might play a similar role and star in the hopes of reaching such heights.
After all, he has been praised for his consistency, which, when combined with his classy play style and tireless work ethic, makes him an excellent candidate to join the Premier League.
Legendary Dutch striker Marco van Basten attempted to illustrate these characteristics, but couldn’t help but make a scathing remark about last summer’s big signing Antony:
“I find Mohammed Kudus a much better football player than Antony. Antony has his skills, but he is confused with the things he is trying to do!
“Kudus has much better technique and he knows what he is doing. Antony may be faster, but Kudus is smarter and more technical. He is much more of a footballer, you can place him anywhere on the pitch, an all-rounder for the team. In fact, I like him much better than Antony. He’s more fun to watch play.”
His unpredictability makes him unique, but that is exactly what has given Nkunku such success early on in his career. He even noted himself: “I play where the coach decides. I don’t want to be a problem but a solution. But I can be up front, in support behind or on the wings. I have this ability to adapt – I like to be free.”
Perhaps Ten Hag could once again unleash Kudus with the potential deal in question, taking a leaf out of their rivals’ book with regard to a new role for him to fulfil.