Rumour: Louis van Gaal to battle with Jose Mourinho and Arsene Wenger for Mario Mandzukic
New Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal is reportedly battling with Chelsea and Arsenal for the signature of Bayern Munich striker Mario Mandzukic, according to the Daily Mail.
Mandzukic has been sought-after by the likes of Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United, however, the latter have just recruited van Gaal who wants his side to follow up their interest in the Croatian.
Mandzukic reportedly angered manager Pep Guardiola recently, who has now told the striker: ‘Goodbye, and good luck with your next club.’
The incident happened after the 4-0 Champions’ League semi-final second-leg defeat by Real Madrid at the Allianz Arena. Guardiola reportedly spoke to the whole Bayern team in an emotional speech in which he blamed the defeat on his tactics and while the whole team were visibly upset, Mandzukic shook his head and smiled at Guardiola.
Mandzukic was subsequently dropped for the German Cup final win over Borussia Dortmund on Saturday, despite being fit.
Jose Mourinho is desperate to bolster his front-line, after a series of attacks on his three under-performing strikers, while van Gaal wants to reinforce his striking department, along with Arsene Wenger.
Mandzukic is valued at £20million and all three managers are tempted to part with their money.
Mandzukic has been a key player for Bayern Munich since signing in 2012, but he seems disillusioned with life at the Allianz Arena after Guardiola opted for Thomas Muller up-front in several Bundesliga games ahead of Mandzukic.
Not satisfied with his role on the team and with Robert Lewandowski set to arrive in summer, the Croatian seems ready to move to pastures new.