Manchester United’s search for a striker has taken them all over Europe this summer, and while one name is emerging as a favourite inside the club, his latest demand should make the Reds think twice.
The club have found themselves linked with a rotating cast of forwards, from Liam Delap’s early rejection in favour of Chelsea to more recent connections with Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres and even surprise links to Ewan Henderson.
With clear primary targets falling through, United have been forced to get creative, casting a wider net in the market than initially planned.
One name gaining serious traction is Moise Kean – now reportedly seen as a top candidate inside Old Trafford. But with the financial demands emerging around his potential move, it’s not a deal the club should be rushing into.
Moise Kean became a favourite at Old Trafford, reports Italian outlet
Kean’s links to United started quietly but haven’t gone away. He’s been on the club’s radar for over a month, and stories haven’t disappeared – if anything, they’re gathering pace.
At 26, he fits the sweet spot for what Ineos are looking for – not too young to be a pure gamble, but still with room to grow. His physical profile, along with a reasonable release clause, adds to his appeal. And after a breakout season with Fiorentina, where he scored 20 goals, there’s renewed faith in his ability.
Reports from Italy, including Corriere dello Sport, suggest Kean has become “one of the favourites” options to fill the number nine role. But along with that rising profile comes a wage demand United should avoid.
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Kean’s £17m salary demand
Interest in Kean hasn’t been limited to Europe. Saudi club Al Qadsiah have already made him an opening offer worth around £12.8m (€15m) per season. Instead of accepting, he reportedly countered with a demand for £17m (€20m) annuity.
That goes far beyond what Manchester United would – or should – pay. Not only does it price the club out, but it also raises questions about Kean’s motivation, especially after two inconsistent spells earlier in his career, at Everton and Juventus.
United need to remain disciplined. Overspending on wages has burned the club before, and economic caution is even more critical post-FFP changes.
Kean had a strong year at Fiorentina, but no one season has ever defined a player’s entire career. One standout campaign doesn’t erase what’s come before – and looking back at his earlier performances in England, there was little to suggest he could lead the Red Devils back to glory.
United need a player who can take them to a new level – not one they hope will finally find consistency at the age of 26, especially at a massive financial cost.
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