Ten Hag insists Man Utd have plenty to play for after European exit
Mason Greenwood could be one of a handful of players Manchester United will need to replace next summer if he completes a permanent move away. But Arsenal are well-positioned to land a blow in Erik ten Hag’s striker search after reportedly stealing a march for Santos’ Marcos Leonardo.
The 20-year-old forward made headlines throughout an impressive individual 2023 season, scoring 21 goals in a poor Santos team.
His goalscoring exploits and eye-catching potential have reportedly grabbed the attention of Europe’s biggest clubs, including United.
But based on claims in Brazil, Arsenal appear to be leading the race for Leonardo’s signature ahead of the January transfer window.
According to R7, Leonardo wants to leave Santos after the club suffered the first relegation of their 111-year existence, and they aren’t expected to stand in his way.
It’s claimed United are monitoring his situation as Ten Hag plans fresh attacking firepower next year.
However, the report adds that Arsenal are preparing a £17million bid for the Brazil U20 international, which other Brazilian outlets have previously suggested would meet Santos’ asking price.
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Given the clubs’ contrasting success this season, the Gunners would likely present a more attractive opportunity for Leonardo than United next month.
Mikel Arteta’s side are challenging for the Premier League title for a second successive campaign and have progressed to the Champions League last 16.
Meanwhile, United are slumped in sixth in the Premier League, nine points off leaders Liverpool ahead of Sunday’s trip to Anfield.
And Ten Hag won’t oversee any European football in the second half of the season after just one win in six Group A games left his outfit rock bottom.
The Dutchman will be keen to boost his attacking options this winter and next summer, though, amid a continued struggle for goals.
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Jadon Sancho, banished from the United first team since the start of September, is expected to leave in January.
Among Ten Hag’s active options, Marcus Rashford has failed to replicate his career-best 30-goal 2022/23 season, netting just twice in 20 appearances.
Rasmus Hojlund is yet to score a Premier League goal, while Anthony Martial, Alejandro Garnacho and Antony’s contributions remain scarce.
Greenwood is reportedly set to join Martial in leaving Old Trafford permanently next summer after his loan at Getafe, likely placing two forwards on Ten Hag’s transfer wishlist.
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