Man Utd set to rival Liverpool for standout World Cup star who has previously worked with Ten Hag

Recent reports have claimed that Manchester United are considering a move for Ajax star Mohammed Kudus in January.

Kudus had a standout World Cup campaign for Ghana and several Premier League clubs have been monitoring his situation with Ajax.

The 22-year-old had a standout performance against South Korea when he scored a brace during Ghana’s 3-2 victory in the group stages.

Erik ten Hag is keen to add more firepower to his squad and Kudus has been the latest name linked with the club. The Metro has reported on United’s interest as the January window is now right around the corner.

Since Ten Hag’s arrival, Man Utd have picked up several stars from the Eredivisie with the likes of Antony, Lisandro Martinez and Tyrell Malacia all coming over from the Netherlands.

The 22-year-old Kudus has been in and out of the Ajax team so far this season as he has started in just five of their 14 league matches. Nine of his 14 league appearances have come from the bench.

The Ghanaian forward is fairly versatile and can operate in a number of different roles. From playing on either flank, in midfield or as a traditional number nine.

Given the recent departure of Cristiano Ronaldo, Man Utd are in desperate need of some more firepower and Kudus could be the man for the job.

In the Eredivisie and Champions League this season Kudus has scored nine goals. He averages a goal every 106 minutes and fits the profile of a player that Ten Hag usually likes.

Along with Man Utd, several other Premier League clubs, including Liverpool have also been keeping tabs on Kudus and could make a move for him in January.

Man Utd need more firepower

Ten Hag is well aware that his aim for the season is to finish in the top four and secure Champions League football for next season.

United are currently fifth in the table and three points behind Spurs with a game in hand. Despite the rocky start, Ten Hag’s side have showcased real signs of progression throughout the season so far.

Ten Hag’s side have only scored 20 league goals this season though which is considerably lower than any of the teams currently above them in the league.

If they were to continue to score an average of 1.42 goals per game, they would finish the season having scored just 54 goals which would be fewer than they managed last season.

When asked if United are in need of another forward next month, Ten Hag explained (via Manchester Evening News): “Yes, but only when we find the right player. We do everything in our power.

“We are doing research on every opportunity and we do everything we can if that opportunity is there to contract them.”

Along with Kudus, Man Utd have been linked with several other forwards, including fellow Eredivisie star Cody Gakpo. Time will tell on which target they decide to pursue in January.

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