Manchester United are looking to improve their forward line this transfer window ahead of Erik ten Hag's debut season. With both the striker and right-wing needing reinforcing however it is still unclear whether the club will go for a specialist or a more versatile forward.
One player that has been linked with a move is 22-year-old Antony and the Manchester Evening News understands that United are interested in bringing the left-footed right-winger to Old Trafford. The Brazilian played under Ten Hag at Ajax and was a key part of their title-winning side last season.
Dutch journalist Mike Verweij has stated however that Antony may only be available for a fee of around €70-80m, likely putting him outside of United's budget. With that in mind, let's have a look at some alternatives Ten Hag could consider bringing in this summer:
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Michael Olise
If United need a left-footed right-winger who would instantly make an impact in the Premier League, then why not look within the league itself with Olise. Reports earlier in the year had stated that the Frenchman may have a release clause of around £35m, but even if he cost a little more, he would be worth the investment.
Prising him away from Crystal Palace would be difficult, given the good environment that Patrick Vieira has fostered there, but if United were able to they would be getting a technically sound and dynamic attacking option. And at 20 years old he will only improve on his debut campaign.
Yeremy Pino
Villarreal's Champions League run embodied a true underdog story and on the right-wing, they had 19-year-old Pino adding dynamism and creativity. The Spanish winger plays the role more traditionally, keeping the width rather than driving into the box and this offers a different option to the likes of Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford.
With a release clause of £67m he wouldn't come much cheaper than Antony, but there might be some room for negotiation with Villarreal. On the other hand, United could look to sign his teammate Arnaut Danjuma, who can play on either wing or up front.
Moussa Diaby
Diaby has been linked with a move to Newcastle this summer for a fee in the region of £50m, but at that price, United should also be considering a move. The French winger scored 17 goals and registered 14 assists in 42 appearances last season including four goals and two assists in eight Europa League appearances.
He is also a left-footed right-winger and while there are some question marks over whether he would be able to adapt to the Premier League, if he can he offers good value for money in an inflated market. And he is also much more proven than Antony.
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