Manchester United are being linked with a move for Porto striker Mehdi Taremi, who scored 31 goals last season....CONTINUE READING
Everywhere Manchester United turn, it appears prices are being hiked up excessively for strikers. Rasmus Hojlund is a case in point. The Mail report Atalanta want £86 million. And at this point, the transfer loses all value.
It is not a surprise to see Manchester United linked with new names. Iranian outlet IMNA report the Red Devils are eyeing a swoop for Mehdi Taremi.
While he is not a long-term option at 30-years-old, there is reason to back this move if United pursue it.
Taremi has the credentials
Mehdi Taremi struck 31 goals for Porto last season including five in seven Champions League matches. He also netted two goals at the World Cup for Iran.
He has a solid record of 80 goals in 147 matches for Porto. His contract expires at the Portuguese club in June 2024.
At international level he boasts a record of 33 goals in 66 matches for his country. He is a goalscorer – and that’s what Manchester United need.
Last season there were no fitness issues either. Taremi only missed one game for Porto, and that was due to a suspension after an accumulation of yellow cards.
Taremi stop-gap ahead of Kane swoop
Mehdi Taremi’s age is one of the arguments against a move. But it is also part of the case for him. He is a short-term option, and that’s fine. Manchester United need a striker who can contribute now.
That arguably makes him better than a Rasmus Hojlund, who is a prospect, and may not be able to handle regular Premier League football. Taremi could come in and lead the line right away.
12 months later, Manchester United could double-up, and sign Harry Kane on a free transfer.
United have currently abandoned a move for Kane due to Tottenham refusing to consider offers. The England international looks set to let his Spurs deal expire and leave on a free transfer next summer.
A move for Taremi now, and Kane later, may also allow United to spend money in other positions this summer. Potentially even a move for Taremi’s Porto teammate, goalkeeper Diogo Costa.
It may work for Real Madrid
Real Madrid are in a similar situation right now, as they consider their plan for Kylian Mbappe, who like Kane, will be available on a free transfer next year.
They have struck a deal to sign veteran striker Joselu, The Mail report, as they simply need a professional striker now, and don’t want to over-spend on the wrong player.
United want Kane, and can get him next year. With a little patience. Moving to sign Taremi this summer, could be the right move for right now.
