Manchester United have held exploratory talks with Burnley over a loan deal for Wout Weghorst in January.
It was previously reported that United are close to reaching an agreement with Besiktas over a transfer of Weghorst, with United’s board avid fans of the Dutchman.
The report indicated that talks are down the stretch with the 30-year-old bound for Old Trafford.
The Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell reports that United’s emphasis on loan deals amid limited funds has forced Erik ten Hag to turn to Weghorst.
Ten Hag loves the attitude of the player.
At the World Cup, Weghorst faced Lionel Messi in the quarterfinals. It seemed that the striker left his mark on the Argentine who extended the confrontation to his post-match interview.
Weghorst was introduced by Louis van Gaal and scored twice to force the game into extra time before they were eliminated on penalties.
Whitwell says: “It is understood that United have made an inquiry to the Lancashire club. [Burnley] that could see the 30-year-old move to Old Trafford during the January transfer window.
“Besiktas has the option to buy Weghorst for 10 million euros at the end of the season. Therefore, any potential new moves for him would need his approval to break the current deal.”
“United view Weghorst as an option to fill a void at the forward position, and the club decide to only pursue loan deals during this window. It is believed that permanent options, even at low cost, are not being evaluated.”
One indication that the deal could happen is that Weghorst seemed to be saying goodbye to the Besiktas fans when he scored tonight.
He raised the plaque and expressed his love to them in an unequivocal farewell sign.
???? Wout Weghorst celebration tonight, is linked with a loan to #MUFC. pic.twitter.com/fEoVk7wT6G
— UtdPlug (@UtdPlug) January 7, 2023
Beyond Weghorst, United are also eyeing Barcelona striker Memphis Depay.
Whitwell adds that United are not in the running for Al-Nassr’s Vincent Aboubakar and that he is not on their list. Yesterday it was reported that the Red Devils made a loan proposal to the Cameroonian.
