Manchester United Transfer News: Mauro Icardi, Angel Di Maria Exits Lead Rumours
Manchester United are one of four clubs currently courting Inter Milan striker Mauro Icardi, according to reports.
BeIN Sports' Tancredi Palmeri passes on a report from Sky Italy saying Chelsea are making the most noise ahead of potentially capturing the 21-year-old striker:
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Icardi took his Serie A goals total to 13 this season with his recent brace against Palermo, reported by WhoScored.com. Louis van Gaal will have the opportunity of signing Radamel Falcao on a permanent deal at the end of the season, but it remains to be seen whether the Colombian will prove his worth during his current loan spell. If he doesn't, Icardi could be an option.
Falcao has scored four Premier League goals and provided three assists in 15 appearances this campaign, per WhoScored.com. His work-rate has been impressive, but it's difficult to shake the feeling this isn't the same player who romped through Europe at his previous clubs, noted by former Tottenham striker Gary Lineker:
The 29-year-old striker missed an excellent opportunity to equalise during United's recent draw with West Ham, a result which was salvaged through a last-gasp Daley Blind strike. Falcao continues to throw his weight around but is regularly knocked off the ball.
His partnership with Robin van Persie is slowing United's forward play, and in truth, Falcao hasn't hit domestic double-figures since 2013, per WhoScored.com. This is something Icardi has already achieved with an improving Inter side, potentially giving Van Gaal something to think about for the summer.
United are also said to be eyeing Palermo's Paulo Dybala, tweeted by BT Sport:
Reported target Marco Reus is said to be on the brink of penning a contract extension at Borussia Dortmund, per Ben Jefferson of the Express. Will Tidey of B/R UK thinks Van Gaal will pass with this in mind:
Such a player could be a long-term replacement for Angel Di Maria, who has confirmed he wishes to return to Argentina to finish his playing days. While this shouldn't happen for some years yet—the 26-year-old is just getting started at Old Trafford—his desire at least provides United ample time to plan for the future.
Di Maria spoke to FifaTV (h/t Jack De Menezes of The Independent):
"I think the next step would be to go back to Rosario Central, another giant! Let me explain: it's true, I have played for big European clubs already. I've played two World Cups, I've won the Champions League.
I started at Benfica, not as big but one of the biggest clubs in Portugal. I've played for Real Madrid. Then I moved to Manchester United, from a giant to another giant. I think after this, it'll be time to go back home. I hope so.
"
United's decision not to spend in January and incoming £75 million per-season shirt deal with Adidas ensures the club can go big in the summer. Players such as Icardi, Dybala and Reus represent real options for Van Gaal, who needs to continue adding quality to his squad.
The Red Devils will become a more attractive prospect if Champions League football can be attained, a feat which would also allow the club to spend further cash in their attempt to become one of Europe's powerhouse teams once more.
