It seems that Manchester United are pushing hard to make a move for El Bilal Touré before the transfer deadline on Monday. Despite other high-profile targets like Viktor Gyökeres, Victor Osimhen, and Mathys Tel, United are reportedly moving swiftly to secure Touré, who has been a target for a number of clubs.
Key Developments:
- El Bilal Touré’s Situation:
- Current Status: Touré is currently on loan at Stuttgart from Atalanta but is sidelined due to a metatarsal injury, which could complicate the deal.
- Stuttgart’s Position: Stuttgart have not been impressed with Touré’s form, and there have been reports suggesting that they may not take up the option to keep him beyond this loan spell.
- Permanent Move to Stuttgart: Stuttgart are reportedly considering a permanent move for Touré for a fee of around €18 million, which would allow them to close the deal. However, this doesn’t mean Touré will necessarily stay in Germany, and United are trying to capitalize on this situation.
- United’s Interest in Touré:
- Strategic Move: Ruben Amorim and the United hierarchy have identified Touré as a striker option for the future. With the team’s attacking depth being questioned—especially given the fluctuating form of Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho—United want to secure a forward who can add both depth and potential.
- Plans for Rashford & Garnacho: Although Marcus Rashford has been the subject of some transfer speculation, United are not likely to part with him this window. Alejandro Garnacho, despite his form issues, is also unlikely to leave in January, but Amorim is reportedly looking for more competition and options in the attacking third.
- Why El Bilal Touré?
- Physical Attributes: Touré is a physically imposing forward, known for his pace, power, and ability to hold up the ball. While he’s been limited to appearances with Stuttgart due to his injury, his potential and past performances for Atalanta have drawn attention from several clubs.
- Versatility: Touré is versatile in attack, capable of playing both as a central striker and on the wing. This flexibility could fit well into Amorim’s tactical system, where movement and interchanging positions are key components.
- The ‘Crazy’ Deal:
- The report suggests that the move for Touré could be part of a “crazy” deal. This may involve Stuttgart buying the striker outright for €18 million before selling him to United, or there could be a separate negotiation where United directly takes over the loan or agrees to a permanent deal with Atalanta. The specifics are still unclear, but it indicates that United are attempting to push through a deal despite the complications of the loan situation.
- Competition from Other Clubs:
- As with many potential moves in the final days of the transfer window, United are not alone in their pursuit of Touré. Clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea have also shown interest in strikers, and it’s possible that Touré may attract multiple suitors.
Potential Impact on United:
If United manage to secure Touré, it would give Ruben Amorim another dynamic forward option for his squad, one who could provide competition for the likes of Rashford and Garnacho. Even with the injury issues that Touré is dealing with, his potential and versatility might offer United the depth they need, particularly with a focus on building for the future rather than just immediate impact.
Conclusion:
The El Bilal Touré transfer seems to be one of the most surprising late-window moves for Manchester United, and if they can navigate the complexities of his injury situation and Stuttgart’s involvement, he could be a valuable addition. It’s also clear that Ruben Amorim is making moves to address the squad’s attacking options ahead of the season’s crucial final months.
With the window rapidly closing, all eyes will be on whether United can secure this deal and if Touré can be the player who helps bolster the squad and potentially provide much-needed competition for places in the forward line.
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