Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has let club bosses know of his frustration at missing out on his number one target, Cody Gakpo.
Linked with United since the summer, Gakpo looked destined for Old Trafford before Liverpool swooped in and hastily sent United to the Dutchman’s services.
One report detailed that United simply couldn’t compete with Liverpool’s financial package, so they dropped the search for the 23-year-old striker.
According to ESPN’s Rob Dawson, while Ten Hag has been deeply disappointed that the club have failed to secure Gakpo’s services, he remains optimistic that a near-term replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo can be found in January.
Dawson reports that Ten Hag was not surprised by Liverpool’s hijacking of the Gakpo deal.
ESPN reporter broadcasts: “Ten Hag is sympathetic to the budget constraints at United after a larger-than-expected outlay over the summer, but has asked the club to assess near-term options to fill the void left by Ronaldo.”
“With very little money available for a transfer fee, United are looking at short-term loan deals until the end of the season.”
“Sources have told ESPN that Joao Félix is available to leave Atlético Madrid, but the Spanish club would want a significant loan fee plus a deal to cover his salary, which could bring the total package to close to $22 million. euros for six months.
United also ruled out the possibility of signing Bologna striker Marko Arnauovic.
The Red Devils explored a deal for the former West Ham and Stoke City striker in the summer, but backed out after pressure from fans and criticism in the press.
One player United could sign for is Álvaro Morata, but only if Atlético Madrid are willing to listen to offers for the Spaniard.
Ten Hag himself stressed the need for United to dive into the market and look for attacking reinforcements.
After the win against Nottingham Forest, he said the club must sign a striker but one that aligns with the vision and spirit of the club.
