Erik Ten Hag is set to allow Anthony Martial to leave Manchester United this summer, according to reports.
Martial, a French striker, joined the club in 2015 from AS Monaco for over £58m. Although he scored 23 goals in the 2019/20 season, he has struggled with injuries and scored only seven in 18 appearances this season.
Despite Martial’s popularity among the supporters, his exit is on the cards. His contract with Manchester United ends in 2024, with an option for a one-year extension, but the club may consider a free transfer to facilitate his exit.
Kudus to come in as replacement
With the rebuilding programme of Manchester United entering its second phase, the club is reportedly seeking a replacement for Martial. Erik ten Hag has already decided on a replacement for Martial, which could involve another big-money raid on his former club, Ajax.
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Mohammed Kudus, the 22-year-old Ghanaian forward who can play anywhere across the attack and behind the striker, is the chosen replacement.
Kudus has had an excellent season, scoring 18 goals and providing five assists from 38 appearances. Ajax has reportedly demanded a fee for Kudus in the region of £60m.
Erik ten Hag has previously worked with Kudus at Ajax and knows what the player is capable of, making him keen on a reunion this summer.
However, Kudus’ arrival will not halt Manchester United’s plans to bring in a new No 9 this summer. Victor Osimhen, Harry Kane, and Goncalo Ramos remain potential options for the Red Devils.
Manchester United’s season so far
Since Erik ten Hag took over as Manchester United’s manager, the club has made significant progress.
Several big names have been allowed to leave amid a mass overhaul, including Nemanja Matic, Paul Pogba, Jesse Lingard, and Juan Mata. Cristiano Ronaldo‘s exit was self-inflicted after his public criticism of the club.
United has already secured the Carabao Cup, and they want to add more trophies in the FA Cup and Europa League. They must defeat Sevilla after Thursday’s 2-2 draw in the first leg to reach the Europa League semi-finals.
The club has enjoyed a season of great progress under Ten Hag’s leadership, with over £200m of new talent coming in last summer.
