Wout Weghorst: The sensible choice
Dutch forward Wout Weghorst's link to Manchester United has garnered a slew of mixed reactions. While many are excited over the potential move, some have called it out to be a mediocre one.
It was only days ago that Erik ten Hag slammed the club for its transfer business conducted in the post-Ferguson era.
“The club has bought an unimaginable number of players in recent years who have not been good enough. Most purchases have been average - and at United average is not good enough. United's shirt weighs heavily. Only real personalities, who can perform under great pressure, can play here,” he said.
United was weighing up a move for Portuguese sensation Joao Felix this January but economic constraints have forced the club to look at only a certain kind of player, which has more to do with the price than the function.
Weghorst, who can be remembered for his brace against Argentina in the World Cup globally or his dismal run at Burnley amongst Premier League viewers, may not be a glamorous signing and can be perceived as a strange choice.
Anthony Martial made a blistering start to the season under ten Hag, who gave everyone a clean slate on his arrival and most fans were excited about what lay ahead for the Frenchman.
However, Martial's performances in United's last three games have begun to lay seeds of doubt over his effectiveness in the number 9 role once again.
One can say that it would be a little harsh to criticize the 27-year-old who has 7 goal contributions in 12 games but the fact that he misses out on several matches in a season due to injuries is another factor as to why he cannot be relied upon in that role.
Martial may have the tools and blitz that Weghorst does not hold in his locker-room but the Dutchman does tick the requirements that Manchester United are crying out for at the front.
The Beşiktaş forward would make a decent option for 6 months (rumoured loan deal) giving Manchester United enough time to zero in on a proper striker to lead the attack whilst navigating a potential takeover.
Weghorst is also being over-hyped by certain sections of the fanbase but if there's one thing that every United fan likes, it's a man with character and the Dutchman will certainly bring that to the table. He'll be loved like Ander Herrera.
A deal between 3 clubs will never be easy. Weghorst has his heart set on Manchester United. If recent reports of the 30-year-old willing to pay for his contract termination (loan spell at Beşiktaş) are to be true, that's going to get a lot of United fans excited.
The last time Manchester United brought in a Dutch forward (Robin van Persie), it helped them win the Premier League. Presently, the Red Devils are in a different environment (rebuilding) compared to Sir Alex Ferguson's title-winning charge.
Erik ten Hag has been brilliant since his induction but still has a lot of work to do. It will be a long season and questions will be asked should Weghorst make the move. With the way things are, this acquisition seems to fit the mould and creates a great stepping stone for the 2023/24 season. Trust the process.