Manchester United’s need for a goalscorer was made even more evident they way the team fumbled yet again at Old Trafford, this time to Crystal Palace in the Premier League on Sunday.
Ruben Amorim seems to have been fed up with Rasmus Hojlund, who had not scored in 12 goals heading into Sunday’s encounter, and chose to play Kobbie Mainoo as a false nine against the Eagles.
The England international, not too long ago, was playing as the defensive midfielder, but has now been forced to start up top amidst the Dane and Joshua Zirkzee’s struggles in front of goal.
The selection gamble was a clear message to the co-owners to try and bring in a goalscorer or else the team is likely to continue suffering out on the pitch.
Striker needed
Just after the final whistle, Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg claimed Mathys Tel of Bayern Munich wants to immediately join up with Amorim’s team before the deadline.
United’s initial offer was a straight loan which the Bundesliga giants have rejected. Bayern want United to include an obligation to buy or to secure the Frenchman on a permanent basis.
“BREAKING | Been told Mathys Tel has decided to join Manchester United with immediate effect. Concrete negotiations are underway between Bayern and MUFC.
🚨🆕 BREAKING | Been told Mathys #Tel has decided to join Manchester United with immediate effect ✔️
Concrete negotiations are underway between Bayern and #MUFC.
⚠️ ManUtd have submitted a loan offer, which Bayern immediately rejected. Bayern are not satisfied with the offered… pic.twitter.com/4J1QDePnPi
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) February 2, 2025
“ManUtd have submitted a loan offer, which Bayern immediately rejected. Bayern are not satisfied with the offered package from England and are are pushing for an obligation to buy or a permanent transfer,” the journalist wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Bayern want permanent Tel exit
Most initial reports indicated United were open to including an option to buy but buying him outright this January could disturb their summer plans.
Viktor Gyokeres or Victor Osimhen are out-and-out goalscorers and are natural strikers while Tel is a winger who can also play up front.
He does not have the same pedigree in front of goal as the Swede and Nigerian which might force United to abandon their move. It will be interesting to see what INEOS ultimately decide.
Leon Bailey and Christopher Nkunku are also options that the club are reportedly looking at. One thing is for sure, Amorim needs help and fast.
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Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
