Manchester United are baulking at the £80million-plus price-tag Eintracht Frankfurt have put on Randal Kolo Muani.
The Frenchman, who helped his country to the World Cup final, is in demand this summer after scoring 23 goals in 45 across all competitions last season. And he chipped in with the most assists in the Bundesliga after creating 14 goals.
United have held talks with Frankfurt over a deal as they look for an alternative to Harry Kane, but the steep asking price is putting them off. Bayern Munich have been noted to hold an interest in both of the forwards, and the Red Devils’ decision over Kolo Muani could put them in the driving seat.
He has already admitted that he has ambitions of playing in the Premier League in the future. Speaking earlier this month, he said: 'It's not just because you come from the Parisian region and grow up there that you should automatically play for PSG.
“Honestly, who doesn't dream of playing in the Premier League? It's one of the best leagues that exists. You dream about it. These are childhood dreams.
“But I'm not searching for the perfect club or the best club in the world. I'm really looking for the club that will give me the chance to be able to express myself, to earn gametime and most importantly allow me to grow.”
Which striker do you think Man Utd should sign? Share your suggestions in the comments below
It looks to be a case of deja vu for United boss Erik ten Hag, who has been told that the Red Devils will no longer be pursuing Tottenham striker Kane star due to Daniel Levy’s sky-high demands. They have already abandoned their pursuit of the forward.
However, the England captain is still reported to be holding out hope that United renew their interest. Another alternative to Kane could be Atalanta striker Rasmus Hojlund.
The young Dane enjoyed an impressive first season in Italy after his arrival from Sturm Graz. A deal for the 20-year-old is not expected to be cheap either with the Serie A side thought to be demanding £86m for his signature.
Former United defender Rio Ferdinand has already issued his thoughts on the Red Devils’ pursuit of a forward and has urged them to break the bank for Napoli hitman Victor Osimhen.
Speaking on his Vibe with Five podcast, he said: “I'd sign Kane in a heartbeat, he has gone under the radar because of [Erling] Haaland but I am not waiting and playing games in July.
“If he said no, I'd move straight on to Osimhen. Even if he's £150m, do it. Look at the market. Who else is there? There’s no one ready-made.”
On a potential deal for Hojlund, Ferdinand added: “He’s not ready-made, ain’t done it properly at the top consistently. You’re buying him off the back of a season.”
