Manchester United are reportedly eyeing a surprise move for Edin Dzeko as they continue their search for a striker.
Erik ten Hag is on the lookout for a new forward in January following the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo, but he does so with a lack of funds after last summer's £200 million spree on Antony, Casemiro and Lisandro Martinez.
If rumours are to be believed, United are exploring a loan deal for Burnley forward Wout Weghorst to provide attacking cover.
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And now, reports suggest former Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko, who currently plays his football in Italy with Inter Milan, is another potential target.
Dzeko's contract at the Nerazzurri will expire at the end of this season, and a new deal has yet to be offered to the experienced Bosnian.
The former Wolfsburg and Roma striker has, however, scored 11 goals in 25 games for club and country this season.
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And that impressive run of form has impressed a number of top European clubs, including high-flying Manchester United.
In fact, Erik ten Hag's side are said to be "interested" in making a move, according to Calciomercato, but they face stiff competition from La Liga giants Real Madrid.
Carlo Ancelotti is also keen to bolster his attacking line before Brazilian wonderkid Endrick joins next year, and Dzeko fits the bill.
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Interestingly, Calciomercato also suggest United have also "turned" to Borussia Mönchengladbach forward Marcus Thuram, with his cut-price fee being a possible gamechanger for the Reds.
That being said, they will have to move quickly if they stand any chance of signing Thuram.
Premier League outfit Chelsea have already initiated contact with the Bundesliga club and are planning talks over the next 48 hours, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Graham Potter's side are hoping to convince Gladbach to sell Thuram, who is out of contract at the end of the season, for around £8.5 million.
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Back in December, Ten Hag confirmed his ambitions to sign a striker following the departure of Ronaldo.
"Two things," he said. "Impulse can come out of our own club, see Garnacho, see Elanga, see Pellistri, who made a good impression at the World Cup and also in training. That is first.
"Second, yes, we are aware we lost a striker, so I think we have to get a striker in, but it has to be the right one.
"The right one is a player that brings quality to the team, not just adding to the squad because that only gives you problems. And, you know the criteria is high here at Manchester United."
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Who do you think United should bring in?
Let us know in the comments.
Topics: Transfers, Manchester United, Manchester United Transfer News & Rumours