Peter Crouch has already outlined one attribute possessed by Benfica striker Darwin Nunez that would be very welcome at Manchester United.
Erik ten Hag’s long-term task is to bridge the gap between his new side and rivals Manchester City. The divide between the two couldn't have been more obvious last season.
City finished a whopping 35 points ahead of United in the Premier League table. However, one other way the chasm between the two sides was shown was their record from set-pieces.
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While Harry Maguire's goal against Leeds in February was United's first from a corner in 140 attempts, City were ruthlessly efficient from set-pieces, scoring 22 (excluding penalties) in the 2021/22 season - a league-high. However, the signing of Nunez could change the tide. The attacker scored five of his 34 goals from the spot but interestingly a further six with his head.
Crouch, who was a pretty lofty striker himself, noted his aerial attributes in the lead-up to Benfica’s Champions League tie with Liverpool in April. Speaking on BT Sport, he said: "He’s obviously going to be a big threat. Set-pieces as well, he’s good in the air and against Ajax they (Benfica) were very good at set-pieces.
“If they soak up a lot of pressure tonight, that’s where they could hurt Liverpool." And they did indeed, Nunez netting twice in both legs as Benfica bowed out 6-4 on aggregate.
Michael Owen, whose former club Liverpool are also in the chase for the Uruguay attacker, also hailed his abilities. He added: “He’s a great shape for starters. Nowadays, if you’re going to lead the line on your own you’ve got to have a real presence and he’s got that.
"He’s got size, he’s good in the air and he’s quick as well. He’s deceptively quick. Only 22-years-old.
“You think of how many decent strikers Uruguay have had in the past, and this lad looks like the next on the conveyor belt. He could be the next one to join a top European club, he’s got plenty about him."
United are rumoured to be in the market for another striker who possesses an aerial threat. As well as Nunez, they are also said to be keeping tabs on 6'6" Stuttgart striker Sasa Kalajdzic.
Erik ten Hag has seemingly identified the fact that United are lacking at set-pieces and is doing something about it. It’s one way United can start to bridge the gap between themselves and Premier League champions City.
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