Man United set to roll the dice on Swiss teen sensation
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After seeing his side labour to a 1-1 draw with Leicester at the weekend, despite dominating possession for much of the game, Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal is in the market for a new striker.
However, before Red Devils fans get excited at the prospect of luring the likes of Thomas Muller, Robert Lewandowski or Neymar to Old Trafford, the Dutchman appears more likely to try to recreate the magic surrounding Anthony Martial’s surprise signing last summer.
Van Gaal is linked with new players on a daily basis and latest reports suggest the United gaffer has cast his eye on Basel’s teen striking sensation Breel Embolo.
The 18-year-old Cameroon-born Swiss international only made his debut for the Super League side in March 2014, but a healthy return of 24 goals and 18 assists in 67 appearances since has seen some of Europe’s biggest clubs sit up and take notice.
According to reports, Barcelona, Juventus and Arsenal are also keen on the youngster but Van Gaal will hope the faith he has placed in youth throughout his career, most recently with Martial, will persuade Embolo that his future lies at Old Trafford.
News of United’s interest comes in the wake of reports suggesting Cristiano Ronaldo has ruled out an emotional return to the club where he made his name, instead pledging to join French giants PSG if and when he calls time on his Real Madrid career.
With United struggling for goals and the Madrid ace not keen on a reunion, Van Gaal will hope to have found the new CR7 if he wins the race to sign Basel’s hottest prospect.
Next up for United is a home match against West Ham, for which Van Gaal’s side are billed as the 2/5 favourites.
The Irons can be backed at 7/1 to leave Old Trafford with all three points, while the draw is on at 10/3, and should the likes of Wayne Rooney, Martial and Memphis Depay fluff their lines once again Embolo could fancy his chances of some first team action in the New Year.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.
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