If Manchester United are to reinforce their attack in January, the suitable profile would be a short-term option in decent goalscoring form in a major European league and with Premier League experience. They would not have to look far.
Glance at the top scorers in Serie A and, below leading marksman Victor Osimhen, there is none other than Marko Arnautovic. A revolt among United supporters in August kiboshed their approach for the Bologna forward, the backlash so fierce thousands threatened to cancel their season ticket.
One season-ticket holder of 30 years emailed the United chief executive Richard Arnold directly. United supporters have always been one of the most principled and they abhorred the club's interest in Arnautovic on sporting and integrity grounds.
