159-goal ‘genius’ will be ‘high on the wanted list’ at Old Trafford – GiveMeSport

Manchester United will have Barcelona forward Memphis Depay ‘high on their wanted list’, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

Depay had a previous, unsuccessful, spell with the Red Devils, but Erik ten Hag could now be set to bring him back to Old Trafford in the January transfer window.

Manchester United Transfer News – Memphis Depay

BBC Sport reporter Simon Stone recently revealed that Depay’s name has been mentioned a few times as a potential option in the upcoming market, after missing out on his compatriot, Cody Gakpo, who opted to join Liverpool.

The Dutchman has not managed to force his way into Xavi’s plans this season, making just two appearances in La Liga, as per Transfermarkt, and so there has been a lot of talk about him exiting Camp Nou in the near future.

According to the Daily Mail, the 28-year-old was offered to Tottenham Hotspur earlier this month, while Spanish outlet AS claim that Newcastle United have been trying to convince him about a move to St. James’ Park, and they are the most serious of the clubs interested in signing him. (via Sport Witness)

What has Pete O’Rourke said about Memphis Depay?

In an interview with GIVEMESPORT, O’Rourke suggested that Depay’s availability for a low transfer fee could mean that he is being strongly considered by Man United chiefs for a transfer switch: “Again, he can play that number 9 role which he has done for Holland, so he definitely ticks the box on that one.

“He’s probably relatively cheap and available at Barcelona as well, so again that’s another deal that United could do, so I think he’s somebody that will definitely be high on their wanted list.”

Should Depay be brought back to Manchester United?

Hailed as a ‘genius‘ by sports writer Jonathan Liew, there is no doubt about the forward’s goal-scoring abilities, but it is questionable whether he is the best option available for Ten Hag in January.

In 415 professional appearances at club level, the 5 foot 10 ace has scored 159 goals, a fine record indeed for someone that does not always feature centrally, while a record of 43 goals in 86 games for the Netherlands speaks volumes, as per Transfermarkt.

However, the Moordrecht-born marksman has already had one difficult spell at Old Trafford, so he is not likely to be the most inspiring signing for Man United fans, while other younger players that have been linked would represent better long-term options.

One player that the Red Devils have scouted is Jonathan David, who would be more expensive, given that Florian Plettenberg has revealed that Lille would hold out for around £45m to let him leave, but he is much younger at just 22, and has scored an impressive nine goals in 16 Ligue 1 appearances this season, as per Transfermarkt.

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