Manchester United has been placed on high alert after the difficulties of Memphis Depay for playing time at FC Barcelona.
According to Spanish outlet El Mundo Deportivo, the Dutch forward is demanding a free transfer during the winter transfer window.
This is due to Depay’s limited time on the pitch this season, as the attacker has only made two La Liga appearances this term.
He was retired both times and has only managed 16 minutes of Champions League football to boot.
Barcelona’s capture of Robert Lewandowski in the summer has pushed Depay down the pecking order, with Ferran Torres also favored in the center and a host of options ahead on the flanks.
Depay is free to go for free at the end of the current season when his contract expires, but the striker is reportedly insisting he be released even sooner.
On a free transfer, the 28-year-old would be an attractive proposition for many clubs in Europe.
Tottenham Hotspur and Man United are likely to be the main contenders for Depay’s signature if Barcelona agree to his request.
Erik ten Hag may have the advantage of convincing his compatriot Depay to join the Red Devils.
The player is also believed to be excited about returning to Old Trafford despite his unsuccessful spell at the club after being signed by Louis van Gaal.
He has come on in leaps and bounds since then, spearheading Lyon’s attack for three years before joining Barcelona, ​​where he started brilliantly under Ronald Koeman.
Under current manager Xavi, Depay has struggled to make an impact, in part due to Barca’s flexibility in the transfer market.
Given United’s lack of attacking options, the Dutch forward could be a valuable option for Ten Hag.
With Cristiano Ronaldo a possible January departure, the Dutch manager will desperately need reinforcements sooner rather than later.
