Sir Jim Ratcliffe is reportedly planning a major overhaul of Manchester United’s attack with three stars facing the Old Trafford exit. Underperforming forwards Antony, Jadon Sancho and Anthony Martial could supposedly be put up for sale as early as January if Ratcliffe completes his purchase of 25 per cent of the club.
If the three are sold, funds will be raised for a replenished set of attacking options for Erik ten Hag. Express Sport looks at who might be targeted.
Mason Greenwood
It would certainly be extremely controversial but Ratcliffe might choose to bring back Mason Greenwood. After all, it was the current United hierarchy who decided that the academy graduate would never play for the club again after being sent on loan to Getafe.
Ratcliffe could reportedly move on the likes of CEO Richard Arnold and director of football John Murtough. The British billionaire could therefore make his own decision on Greenwood’s future.
It was decided that Greenwood would continue his football career elsewhere after the Crown Prosecution Service dropped charges of attempted rape, coercive behaviour, and assault in March. He has impressed on loan at Getafe in Spain, scoring three times for his new club.
In August, United insisted it is unlikely that Greenwood will play for the club again. But a newly-appointed football department might take another view on the forward’s career. Greenwood could then be reintegrated as part of Ratcliffe’s overhaul, which has been reported by The Sun.
Mehdi Taremi
Man Utd have been tipped to sign an experienced forward in January to ease the pressure on Rasmus Hojlund. Iranian star Mehdi Taremi is reportedly a cheap option for the winter window, the Daily Mail reports.
Taremi is the star of the Iran team which played against England and Wales at the World Cup a year ago. He plays his club football for Porto, where he grabbed 31 goals in all competitions last season.
The report claims that United might be able to strike a bargain deal for the 31-year-old.
Michael Olise
If Antony departs, United will require a replacement for the Brazilian. Ten Hag is known to like wingers who move inside onto their stronger foot, meaning the Dutchman will want a left-footed right winger.
There are not many standout candidates across European football, but Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise might come under consideration. The 21-year-old has recovered from a serious hamstring injury and has now returned to competitive football with the Eagles.
Palace deterred interest in Olise from Chelsea in the summer, persuading the Frenchman to sign a bumper new deal with a lofty release clause. United might fancy their chances of triggering the clause with Ratcliffe’s cash injection.
