That’s according to reliable journalist Florian Plettenberg, who also claims United will return to Bologna with an improved offer, having seen their original offer rejected. (Excerpts from TheUnitedStand on twitter) “Erik ten Hag 100% wants Marko Arnautovic and #mufc want to increase their offer. Arnautovic wants the deal.” Erik ten Hag 100% wants Marko Arnautovic and #mufc want to increase their bid. Arnautovic wants the deal. [@Plettigoal] — The United Stand (@UnitedStandMUFC) August 8, 2022 The new manager worked with the Austria international at FC Twente in the Eredivisie, where he was assistant manager to Steve McClaren, with the pair having reversed their roles at Old Trafford. Given that this post was made over a decade ago, it’s possible that Ten Hag’s interest is influenced more by the lack of a player with Arnautovic’s profile than simply familiarity with his system – although the latter certainly plays a role here. United lack physical presence up front and with the former West Ham striker in the 82nd percentile for aerial duel success among strikers in Europe’s top five leagues last season (according to fbref), he would bring a different threat to the attack of United. Having scored 14 goals in Serie A last season, this striker has had at least one good season at the top level in recent years, which was not the case the last time United went the way of the Shanghai strikers. Bologna are keen to keep hold of their star man after rejecting an initial approach of £6.5m. But United’s intention to make a second bid has been confirmed by Gianluca Di Marzio (via brfootball): “Manchester United to increase bid for Marko Arnautovic after Bologna rejected initial offer worth around $8m, per @DiMarzio” Manchester United will increase their bid for Marko Arnautovic after Bologna rejected their initial bid of around $8 million, per @DiMarzio pic.twitter.com/zqbypyGBSS — B/R Football (@brfootball) August 8, 2022 Should an offer be accepted and a deal completed, the player’s arrival will no doubt divide the club’s fan base, with Arnautovic seemingly another in a long line of options up front – before his checkered past and concerns about his attitude.
