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It’s no secret that Manchester United are in the market for striker reinforcements, with Joshua Zirkzee and teammate Rasmus Hojlund proving they can’t be relied upon to consistently come up with the goods in front of goal.
The two United men have managed a mere five Premier League goals between themselves so far this season. Neither of them has managed to find the back of the net since the turn of the year – not good enough to say the least.
It’s therefore unsurprising that United continue to be linked with multiple strikers as the transfer window approaches. Some of the players believed to be on the Red Devils’ radar include Victor Osimhen (currently on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli), Viktor Gyokeres (Sporting CP), Benjamin Sesko (RB Leipzig), Liam Delap (Chelsea) and of course, Aghehowa.
However, despite all these players being under consideration, United’s options may be far more limited than many would think. Osimhen would cost in excess of £60m and would almost certainly command high wages. For a cash-strapped club eager to restructure their wage system, securing a deal for Osimhen appears to be far from likely. The same applies to Gyokeres, who it’s been mentioned, is unlikely to favour a move to United because of his desire for Champions League football – a competition that remains well out of reach for a 15th-placed United despite still being in the Europa League.
More than once, United have failed to land Sesko and they’re likely to be thwarted yet again in the summer, with Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal rumoured to be eyeing a move for him. A report covered by The Peoples Person claimed that Delap would prefer a transfer to Chelsea over United. Barring any other outside shouts, this leaves us with Aghehowa, and United should certainly be enthused by the prospect of him joining their ranks ahead of next season.
United have reportedly scouted him in action for Porto this season, and there’s speculation that they could move in for him if primary targets like Osimhen and Gyokeres become unattainable. But even if United can somehow get Osimhen and Gyokeres, there’s a strong case to be made that a pursuit of Aghehowa would be more prudent.
Standing at 6’4, Aghehowa has plundered an impressive 19 goals and three assists in 30 goals across all competitions so far this term. In Portugal’s top flight alone, he has registered 13 goals in 18 games. In comparison, his league strikes alone are more than Zirkzee and Hojlund have managed across all competitions combined. Aghehowa’s numbers are undeniable, proving his credentials as a top-class finisher, who carries a real threat.
Agehowa shows no doubts when making his attempts, and possesses incredible technique when setting up and releasing his efforts. He also boasts excellent positioning off-the-ball inside the final third, often creating space for himself to convert. When in space, he is excellent at pulling an opponent, breaking the defensive holding line and consequently improving his chances of getting on the score sheet.
Despite his large stature, Aghehowa is extremely fast. His speed, acceleration, and movement have been exceptionally effective. This coupled with his physicality makes him a handful for defenders, who have regularly resorted to fouling him as a means to cope. The 20-year-old is also an elegant dribbler.
Aghehowa is more of a throwback striker, in the sense that he prefers to stay high up, as opposed to dropping into deeper areas like Harry Kane for instance. Not that the Porto star can’t get involved in play if necessary, but he appears to be more focused on making an impact from around the final third. Another of his strengths is his ability to pounce on loose balls and touches, initiating counterattacks – a valuable skillset for a transitional team like United.
There are of course improvements that he can make in his game including decision-making and the final ball. However, at the current stage of his career, there is plenty of time to refine his craft. What’s clear is that his physicality, speed and ruthlessness in front of goal would instantly improve United.
A deal to secure his signature is also unlikely to be as expensive, compared to the alternatives like Osimhen and Gyokeres. Additionally, Aghehowa perfectly fits the profile of the type of players INEOS want to recruit at United – young, hungry stars with the potential to become superstars if nurtured well. United should be doing everything possible to get him.
Featured image Paolo Bruno via Getty Images
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