Manchester United open talks to sign PSG star in surprise move - Reports
Manchester United have reportedly opened talks to sign Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) forward Ousmane Dembele. The Premier League giants are interested in the Frenchman and have opened talks with his representatives over a possible move next year.
According to Fichajes, the Red Devils are eager to move for Dembele, with the report adding the 27-year-old is said to be open to the move.
Manchester United have encountered troubles on the flank with €100m signing Anthony failing to replicate his Ajax form at Old Trafford. Young forwards Amad Diallo and Alejandro Garnacho are ahead of the Brazilian in the pecking order while Marcus Rashford's form from the left wing has been patchy at best.
Dembele, who can play on the left and right-wing, would give manager Erik ten Hag more options for his forward line. The France international came to the limelight after his breakthrough season with Borussia Dortmund in 2016-17, prompting Barcelona to break the bank and sign the winger in a deal worth €135 million.
His injury record and inconsistent form with the Catalan giants led to a €50 million sale to PSG last season. The 2018 World Cup winner could only score six goals in 42 matches across competitions last season. However, he assisted 14 goals, leading to interest from Manchester United.
PSG manager lauds Manchester United target Dembele
PSG boss Luis Enrique praised Dembele after he scored a brace against Brest on Saturday, September 14. Romain Del Castillo had given the visitors the lead from the spot around the half-hour mark before the Frenchman leveled proceedings in the 42nd minute.
Two goals in as many minutes in the second half, first from Fabian Ruiz (73') and then from Dembele (74'), handed PSG a 3-1 win to extend their perfect start to Ligue 1 this season.
In the post-match press conference, Enrique said:
"I didn't realize he scored two goals; it was a difficult match against a tough team. The least important thing is that he scored two goals; we had many chances for several players to score."
Enrique highlighted Manchester United target Dembele's versatility and intelligence.
"I've been a Dembele admirer for many years; he's a different player. He comes out on the left and on the right, he has a change of pace, he's intelligent," he said.
Dembele, who scored three goals in 26 Ligue 1 games last season, has already netted thrice in four league outings in the current campaign.