Manchester United’s need to strengthen up front was laid bare after Erik ten Hag publicly revealed that his team have little firepower in attacking areas.
Ever since Cristiano Ronaldo left under difficult circumstances, the Dutchman has had to settle for Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford as strikers.
While the duo have done a commendable job, especially Rashford, questions remain over his long-term viability as the only target up front.
striker hunting
Due to United’s financial problems and the possibility of the Glazers selling the club, loan deals remain the only course of action the club can take this January.
Barcelona’s Memphis Depay would have proven to be the perfect solution with his contract expiring in six months.
However, the Catalan giants now intend to let the Dutch international leave on his own for a transfer fee and despite not using him when necessary, Xavi is unwilling to let the 28-year-old leave for the winter transfer window.
Due to the ongoing financial crisis at the La Liga giants, not much is expected in terms of revenue, so Xavi wants to keep all options for now.
Man United have suffered a major blow in their pursuit of Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong and Memphis Depay pic.twitter.com/DxRoswVenE
— The Sun Football ⚽ (@TheSunFootball) January 4, 2023
When asked about Depay’s future, the 42-year-old said: “I don’t want anyone to leave. I am delighted with the template.
“It seems that there will be no market for us. I am happy with Depay,” she told The Sun.
As previously reported on The Peoples Person, the former United attacker was hoping for a change after returning from the World Cup, where he impressed with his all-around game.
Depay to stay at Barça?
But he was left rotting on the bench against Espanyol despite Barça’s problems in attack. But Xavi remains adamant that Depay will see minutes during the course of the campaign.
“His attitude is good and it will be important to us. He has the ability to make a difference. He will have minutes. Like all of them.
It remains to be seen if Depay is happy to play in minor matches or Cup competitions or if he tries to force a move in January.
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