Manchester United are reportedly feeling remorse after opting against signing Fiorentina’s Moise Kean this summer, with the forward proving a potent force in Serie A. The Red Devils had been active in the transfer market, bolstering their ranks with the likes of Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbeumo, thanks to an investment spree totalling approximately £200 million from INEOS.
Amidst the transfer window hustle, whispers suggested United were eyeing up Swedish forward Viktor Gyokeres, who ultimately made a move to Arsenal. In the wake of Gyokeres’ transfer to the Emirates, United swiftly pursued Sesko, beating Newcastle in securing the Slovenian’s signature for a reported £74 million. Concurrently, Rasmus Hojlund made a temporary exit from Old Trafford, joining Napoli on loan after mustering only four Premier League goals in the previous season.
Debate has since surfaced among fans and former Red Devils alike, questioning whether acquiring a defensive midfielder such as Brighton’s Carlos Baleba might have been a more prudent use of the Sesko funds.
TuttoJuve has now claimed that Manchester United harbour regret over their choice of forward, having turned down an offer for Kean, who notched up 19 goals for Fiorentina in the previous Serie A campaign. It is said the Italian striker was presented to United amid their comprehensive search for attacking reinforcements.
Nicky Butt, a former stalwart of Manchester United’s midfield, voiced concerns suggesting the club is repeating errors akin to their past dealings with Hojlund. He remarked to BetMGM: “They need to avoid making the same mistakes with Sesko as they did with Rasmus [Hojlund].” Butt suggested the club might have been better served bringing in an experienced Premier League forward like Ollie Watkins, to mentor and alleviate pressure on the youthful squad members finding their feet.
Despite a goalless start for both club and country this season, Slovenia team-mate Andraz Sporar remains optimistic about Sesko’s prospects at United. He commended Sesko’s attributes, expressing confidence in his eventual success at the club with time and patience: “He has speed, power, intelligence, good football IQ. I believe he will become a complete striker and benefit Manchester United significantly if they’re willing to wait.”
As the season unfolds, the Theatre of Dreams continues to watch keenly, hoping its investments pay dividends on the pitch and formative errors of the past do not resurface.
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