Manchester United to go all out for Chelsea target after personal request from Erik ten Hag: Reports
Manchester United are reportedly prepared to go all out to sign Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez, who's also wanted by Premier League rivals Chelsea.
According to Fichajes (via Football365), manager Erik ten Hag has personally requested the Red Devils pursue the Inter Milan star. The Dutch tactician bolstered his attack this summer with the signing of Rasmus Hojlund, 20, but desires a proven goalscorer.
Martinez, 26, has long been one of Serie A's most renowned strikers with consistently good numbers at the San Siro. He has started this season with six goals and two assists in six games across competitions.
The Inter captain put in captivating performances last season as Inter won the Coppa Italia and finished runner-up in the UEFA Champions League. He bagged 28 goals and 11 assists in 57 appearances across competitions.
Those numbers have seemingly enticed Ten Hag to plot a move for the 2022 FIFA World Cup winner. United have made a shaky start to the campaign, losing three of six league games.
Hojlund is tasked to become Ten Hag's new attacking outlet. However, it's a heavy burden on the young Dane who only arrived from Atalanta this summer. He has one goal in four games across competitions.
Meanwhile, Manchester United could face competition for Martinez's signature from Chelsea. The Blues are on the lookout for a new striker amid their woes in front of goal under Mauricio Pochettino.
Nicolas Jackson arrived in the summer but is yet to adapt to life in the Premier League. The Colombian frontman has managed only one goal in seven games across competitions.
Martinez has three years left in his contract, but Inter's financial issues could lead to several star players departing. The Red Devils are seeking to reach an agreement with both the Serie A giants and the Argentina international. Martinez could be at the top of Ten Hag's wishlist next summer.
Chelsea were interested in Rasmus Hojlund before he joined Manchester United
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported earlier in the summer that Chelsea had scouted Hojlund while he was at Atalanta. The Dane flourished at the Gewiss Stadium last season with 10 goals and four assists in 34 games across competitions.
The Blues were on the lookout for a replacement for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, with the veteran forward departing for Marseille. They set their sights on Hojlund whose stock had grown in Europe while Paris Saint-Germain were also keeping tabs.
However, the Denmark international wanted to join Manchester United, the club he had supported as a child. He was granted his wish when Ten Hag sanctioned a £72 million transfer.
Hojlund has bedded in well to the Dutch coach's frontline, thanks to his power, pace and agility.