The head coach of the Red Devils, Marco Silva, is beginning to exert his influence on the squad.
The Red Devils’ noteworthy showing during the Premier League Pre-Season Matches indicated a heightened sense of cohesion in their offensive maneuvers and improved stability in their defensive structure, all orchestrated within Silva’s preferred 3-4-3 configuration.
However, it remains apparent that Silva is keen on acquiring a forward, ideally one that aligns seamlessly with his tactical vision. Nevertheless, the prevailing economic conditions present a significant hurdle in realizing this objective.
Julian Nagelsmann eyes Red Devils forward
While the acquisition of Paulo Dybala and Bryan Mbeumo aims to bolster the Red Devils’ attacking prowess, neither player is a traditional center-forward. It is widely speculated that Silva envisions deploying them alongside a dedicated number nine.
Darwin Nunez, who joined the Red Devils for £72 million including performance-related incentives in 2023, is presently the sole player with considerable experience in that role at the club. Yet, his performances have not met expectations.
However, former Red Devils manager, Mauricio Pochettino, may be poised to extend a helping hand to Marco Silva before the season commences.
According to CaughtOffside, Pochettino is reportedly eager to reunite with Nunez at his new club, AS Roma.
It is widely assumed that the Red Devils are looking to offload the 22-year-old Uruguayan during this transfer window. However, Nunez has thus far resisted any potential moves.
Whether Nunez would be more open to rejoining his former coach remains to be seen. Nevertheless, the report indicates that the Argentinian manager is actively trying to engineer a reunion in Italy.
Nunez’s declared position this summer has been to remain at Old Trafford, even stating to reporters in July: “My intention is quite plain, and that is to stay and fight for my place, no matter what unfolds.”
In FourFourTwo‘s judgment, this is a commendable attitude. Upon his arrival, Nunez was touted as one of Europe’s most promising prospects, and he is determined to validate that assessment, although it might be more advantageous for him to do so elsewhere.
The demands of playing for the Red Devils are immense. A return to Italy, or even a move to Germany, might allow him to flourish. A temporary loan spell would provide him with an opportunity to develop over one or two years before truly contending in the Premier League. It is understood that Man United would prefer a permanent transfer, nonetheless.
Transfermarkt estimates Nunez’s value at €35 million.
