Manchester United’s lack of goals is clear for all to see with the team failing to get past Crystal Palace in the Premier League last weekend before being halted in their tracks by FC Twente in the Europa League on Wednesday.
The team has scored only five goals in as many games in the English top-flight with new recruit Joshua Zirkzee failing to set the stage alight since his summer move.
INEOS, unlike the Glazers, have made it clear that they will not pursue big-name stars and will instead focus on young gems who can be polished and turned into world-beaters.
Scouting is set to be improved with the South American market, in particular, set to receive a lot of focus with plenty of European teams unearthing gems from that region.
South American talent spotting
According to TBR Football, the latest player who the Red Devils are looking at is Thiago Fernández of Argentina, a left-winger who can also play in the attacking midfield role.
He is only 20 but has already earned comparisons with former Argentine legend Angel Di Maria, a player the Old Trafford faithful do not have fond memories of.
But with five goals and eight assists already for Vélez Sarsfield, it is hard not to take notice of his talents. And United are not the only team sniffing around.
Chelsea, who have already built up an arsenal of South America talents, are also in the race along with Tottenham Hotspur. Liverpool, Aston Villa, Brentford, and Brighton and Hove Albion are also in the mix.
He has been described as a “tall yet elegant player who carries the ball smoothly and packs a punch from range” and United could do with further attacking additions.
The good news for potential suitors is the fact that the Argentina U23 international’s current deal is valid until 2025 and thereby, a pre-contract agreement can be signed as early as January.
Thiago Fernandez, a player in demand
“Thiago Fernandez’s sparkling performances with Velez Sarsfield have drawn comparisons with the former Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus winger.
“Albeit a right footer who likes to cut in from the left – in stark contrast to Di Maria – Fernandez has caught the eye of Man United, Tottenham, Liverpool and a Chelsea side who have delved deep into the South American market of late.
“TBR understands that Aston Villa, Brentford, and perennial talentspotters Brighton and Hove Albion are also watching closely.”
The player’s preferred destination is England and it will be interesting to see which team wins the race in the end. United’s Argentine contingent of Lisandro Martinez and Alejandro Garnacho could potentially swing things in their favour.
Feature image Daniel Jayo via Getty Images
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