Manchester United have some interest a possible deal for Lyon forward Moussa Dembele in this summer transfer window.
As reported by the Manchester Evening News on Friday, the development comes after Ralf Rangnick advised United to look at signing a younger forward at the end of the season, and it's understood Dembele is one of the players currently being looked at.
The 25-year-old has already scored nine goals this season while registering a further three assists. He’s also soon to enter the final year of his contract at the French club, meaning he could be acquired for a reduced fee — should United opt to make a move.
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We know United will be in the market for at least one new forward this summer, with Cristiano Ronaldo entering the final year of his deal and Edinson Cavani almost certain to depart when his contract expires at the end of this campaign.
In terms of the latter, Dembele’s ability, work rate and efficiency in front of goal would make him an ideal replacement for Cavani. However, there’s another facet to his profile that will be just as highly rated by United, and that’s his all-round availability for selection.
Although Cavani has been a popular figure at Old Trafford since arriving at the beginning of last season, especially with supporters, it’s largely accepted that he’s missed too many important matches for them.
In fact since he arrived at the club, the Uruguayan has missed a startling 32 United games through travel-related omissions or injuries. That has proven particularly problematic this season as it has led to an increased reliance on Ronaldo who, at 37, has played more minutes than the club would have liked.
In contrast, across the same period, Dembele has missed just 14 matches, the bulk of which came as a result of a fibula fracture (broken leg).
A player’s availability is often overlooked and underrated when compared to their quality, yet there’s a case to be made that it’s certainly just as important, and after issues with the likes of Cavani in this area, United will be sure to be targeting players who can be available more often going forward.
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