Erik ten Hag, handed over the responsibility for one of the biggest rebuilding projects in Manchester United’s history, has jumped in and have signed five permanent signings so far.
And they have helped improve the team’s performance while also helping to build strong team morale. This is exactly why the Dutchman feels that the human element plays a key role behind a successful transfer.
Despite a good start, there are still a few gaps to fill, including the striker spot after Cristiano Ronaldo’s sensational departure.
Ten Hag’s available options: Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial have had their fair share of problems so far this season.
striker search
Despite returning to fitness, Rashford’s profligacy has cost United on occasion, while Martial has struggled with injury that has restricted him to just four starts this season.
Dutch World Cup hero Cody Gakpo is said to be Ten Hag’s main target to fill that position considering his form for both club and country.
*Sancho transfer rumors* ???????????? Chelsea are planning a move to sign Manchester United winger Jadon Sancho, as CalcioMercato said. The Blues will make the move once they offload Christian Pulisic.#MUFC #ManUtd #ManUnited #ManchesterUnited #MUMUfootball pic.twitter.com/IbLvA7Oart
– MUMU Football (@MUMUfootball) December 7, 2022
And Calciomercatoweb has revealed that such a move could cause a ripple effect involving arch-rivals Chelsea and Serie A giants Juventus.
Gakpo’s strengths include playing on the left flank and switching positions with the striker. Both Rashford and Martial are experts at playing up front and on the left flank.
That would mean Jadon Sancho goes further down the pecking order and the struggling winger could look to move away from the Red Devils.
Domino effect
The former Borussia Dortmund star is not part of United’s squad in Spain and currently trains only in the Netherlands with coaches suggested by the United manager.
As previously reported by The Peoples Person, Chelsea are interested in the 22-year-old and could offer him an escape route from his difficult time at the Reds.
That, in turn, would free up Christian Pulisic to move to Turin, where Massimiliano Allegri is desperate for flank reinforcements despite boardroom problems.
While a move for Gakpo makes sense, it seems unlikely that United will let Sancho go, especially considering the club’s massive spending on him and the fact that it’s only been a season since he arrived.
