Arnautovic has emerged as a target for Manchester United this week as they look for a new centre-forward. With Cristiano Ronaldo on the bench for their opening defeat to Brighton, Christian Eriksen was initially used in a false nine role. Clearly, there could be a better fit for Manchester United. But they may have to enter the transfer market to get someone with the right attributes. With that in mind, they have recently been linked with Arnautovic as a low-cost option. Formerly of Stoke City and West Ham United, he now plies his trade for Bologna at the age of 33. Although he wouldn’t be a long-term solution, Man Utd believe he could be worth working with. He already knows Erik ten Hag and assistant Steve McClaren from a spell at FC Twente earlier in his career when the latter was in charge. As such, they would welcome a reunion which would see Arnautovic return to the Premier League. But according to the Daily Telegraph, United failed with their first bid. They submitted an offer of €8.5m, which equates to around £7.2m. For Bologna, who have Arnautovic under contract until 2024 with an option for another year, it wasn’t enough. However, the Telegraph suggest that Man Utd are willing to make a bigger bid for the striker. Furthermore, Arnautovic is “extremely keen” to make the move and could hand in a transfer request to put pressure on Bologna to sell him. It is perhaps understandable, given the difference in stature between the two clubs.
Easier to get Arnautovic than Cesc
The report concludes that Man Utd may find it easier to sign Arnautovic than another target, Benjamin Sesko. Although the latter is newer, it also comes with a higher price tag. But there is a difference between what Man Utd value him compared to his current employers, RB Salzburg. Additionally, there may be some doubts as to Cesko’s suitability for an immediate first-team impact. Instead, the theory is that Arnautovic could give them a short-term boost up front. His ability to play out wide when needed is also appealing. After marking his return to European football after a spell in China with 14 goals in Serie A last season, Arnautovic is still a capable marksman. In fact, it was the most productive season of his career.
Cavani’s surprise Austrian successor
Given his age, some eyebrows may be raised. But Man Utd have a void to fill in the middle of attack. Of course, some might argue why they didn’t make a bigger effort to keep Edinson Cavani. They would simply be moving one veteran forward for another. And not many would suggest that Arnautovic was the one with the best career. Indeed, Cavani’s legacy overall will be greater. But that doesn’t mean Arnautovic can’t have a definite impact on United, who may have been fighting a losing battle to keep Cavani happy anyway. Instead, the Austrian may recognize his role in the rotation more because of the rise in club he would make. He also has a prior understanding of the Premier League, which Cavani never had when he arrived in Manchester in 2020. It would certainly be an interesting succession plan. Maybe he could be considered outside the box in this case, but Ten Hag turned to players he’s familiar with anyway. Importantly, Man Utd will have to put a cap on how much they think Arnautovic is worth. But with the player ready to push, a positive result could still be reached. READ MORE: Frenkie de Jong swerves as ex-Man Utd man insists club ‘know’ Barcelona star wants to join them
