A striker signing is top of INEOS’ agenda this summer as they look to assemble a capable team for head coach Ruben Amorim.
Given last season’s goal-scoring struggles, it was clear that neither Rasmus Hojlund nor Joshua Zirkzee could be relied upon as a consistent source of goals.
Top forwards from across Europe have been linked, and one of them is Moise Kean.
Man United impressed by Fiorentina hitman Kean has been around for a while, but it was last season that he truly lived up to the hype.
In 44 appearances for La Viola, he racked up 25 goals and three assists, numbers that have earned him plenty of admirers.
With a 44 million release clause, many feel it is now a matter of who moves first to secure his services.
According to reports relayed by The Peoples Person recently, Manchester United are keen to activate that release clause.
While that is yet to happen, the “latest leaks” from the Artemio Franchi Stadium could push them closer.
According to Corriere dello Sport, United remain interested, while a Saudi Pro League side is also willing to offer the 25-year-old a bumper deal. But there is more.
Napoli enters the race Napoli have reportedly joined the race, though the Scudetto winners are said to be prioritising Darwin Nunez and Lorenzo Lucca instead.
Interestingly, Kean recently wiped his Instagram page clean, a move the Italian outlet interprets as a sign of reflection as he weighs up his next move with several big clubs circling.
Tempting payment structure However, the most intriguing update is the financial angle.
According to the report, the release clause can be paid in two instalments.
In their own words (translated), Corriere dello Sport write, “based on leaks from Fiorentina, it’s possible to pay the clause in two instalments. So, anyone who wants to buy Kean can spread the payment.”
For United, who are looking to do a lot this summer, the chance to land Kean for less than 30 million (paid upfront) may be a proposition too good to ignore.
It (this opportunity) would certainly test the Red Devils’ ambition, with a deal like that ideal for freeing up funds to also land the athletic midfielder and reliable goalkeeper Amorim craves.
Second time lucky? Of course, there are doubts. Kean’s first stint in the Premier League (at Everton) was underwhelming.
But this is not the same young, inexperienced striker. He has matured, having subsequently gone on to play for PSG and Juventus before flourishing at Fiorentina.
If United want him, they need to act fast.
If INEOS do not move swiftly, they risk losing him not only to a Saudi Pro League side, but also missing the July 15 deadline to activate his release clause.
Featured image Timothy Rogers via Getty Images
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Daniel Onguko Since Dan was introduced to Manchester United in 2008, he has lived and breathed the club. What started as being a fan evolved into writing about United, allowing him to feel part of their journey. Hopefully, his work might even help rekindle your love for the kings of Manchester.
