Solskjaer plotting move for ex-United midfielder who is available for free transfer in January – Fabrizio Romano

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is interested in former Manchester United attacking midfielder Tom Lawrence, as per reports.

Solskjaer has agreed to return to the touchline after a break of more than three years. The Norwegian, who was sacked as United’s manager in 2021, has been named the new boss at Besiktas.

The Istanbul based outfit have had a tough season, as they find themselves fifth in the Super Lig, a staggering 20 points behind league leaders Galatasaray.

Solskjaer has seemingly already started exploring the transfer market to turn the fortunes of the Black Eagles around, and he has reportedly set his sights on a familiar figure.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Besiktas are “showing initial interest” in Rangers star Lawrence.

The 31-year-old has made 15 appearances for the Scottish giants this season, managing five goals and two assists across all competitions.

⚪️⚫️🦅 Besiktas are showing initial interest in Tom Lawrence at Glasgow Rangers.

Ole Gunnar Solskjær coached him at Man United and now he has 6 months left on his deal, available for free in January. pic.twitter.com/o3wFvZrdzl

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 18, 2025

He has played as a second striker as well as an attacking midfielder at the club. Accordingly, he could challenge both Joao Mario and Ciro Immobile in Istanbul.

The Welshman’s current deal at Ibrox Stadium is due to expire at the end of the season but the Italian journalist says he is available for free in January itself.

Lawrence graduated from United’s academy and left the club in 2014. During his time at the academy, he was also coached by Solskjaer, who led the reserves side from 2008 to 2011.

Solskjaer is set to come across many figures with United connections in Turkey. Besiktas’s rivals Fenerbahce are led by ex-United boss Jose Mourinho and their midfield features Fred, who was one of Solskjaer’s most reliable players during his time at Old Trafford.

Further, in November, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming Besiktas are interested in signing Antony.

It will be interesting to see how Solskjaer’s presence at the club would influence their interest in struggling United stars.