Man Utd's BARGAIN Hojlund alternative

Tom Weber

• 17 Jul 2023 19:53 BST
• 3 min read

Manchester United could target Mohammed Kudus should the Rasmus Hojlund deal fall through.

The Red Devils remain in the market for a new number nine. After basically spending the entire past season without an out-and-out central striker, Erik ten Hag is desperate to bring in a fresh attacker.

Already during last season, the Dutchman repeatedly talked about his desire to sign a proper, world-class number nine. Due to budget constraints brought about by Financial Fair Play regulations and the ongoing uncertainty over the takeover, expectations have had to be lowered, particularly given the signings already made and the lack of outgoings.

READ: Man Utd get Hojlund transfer encouragement from Atalanta boss

With €64.2 million spent on Mason Mount and more than €50m to be shelled out on new shot-stopper Andre Onana, Manchester United won't have much room to manoeuvre unless they sell their unwanted players for unrealistic fees.

This means that funding a move for Rasmus Hojlund could prove tough should Atalanta play hardball.

Kudus an alternative?

The Italian giants are demanding more than United are prepared - and able - to pay, with some reports claiming that Atalanta want as much as €90m. While €60-70m is more realistic, it could nevertheless be too much for United.

Ten Hag, of course, is prepared for a scenario in which they don't get the Dane and one name said to be on the head coach's shortlist is Mohammed Kudus.

As with Onana, the Ghanaian is a former Ten Hag prodigy, having played under him at Ajax. Because of this, he has long been linked with a move to Old Trafford and United's interest appears to be concrete.

READ: Onana to Man Utd and six transfers that could be completed this week

Kudus is an adept scorer, but he's not an out-and-out number nine which casts doubt on his ability to potentially lead the line in the Premier League. Nevertheless, his price tag makes him an enticing proposition and a viable alternative to Hojlund: Ajax would be prepared to let Kudus - who wants out of the club - walk for as little as €50m and perhaps even less than that.