Jose Mourinho does not leave an opportunity to hit his detractors with a “I told you so,” and he might have a chance to do that to Manchester United chiefs in the near future. As the club gears up for the upcoming summer transfer window, it has clear priorities, particularly in the wake of potential departures of key players Christian Eriksen and Casemiro. The United team faces several pressing needs, including finding a new defensive midfielder, addressing their wing-back issues, and determining the long-term future of Amad as a No. 10. However, the most critical concern appears to be the striking position, with Rasmus Hojlund as the only natural striker available after Joshua Zirkzee's recent position change.
This situation brings to light Mourinho's operations seven years ago. In 2017, the Manchester United boss had his moment of vindication after winning the Europa League, securing a spot back in the Champions League. Yet, despite this triumph, the board let him down in the subsequent transfer window, bringing in Diogo Dalot, Fred, and Lee Grant—players who were not what Mourinho needed at that crucial time. In hindsight, the window could have looked quite different had the club pursued a young talent Mourinho had long coveted: a 19-year-old attacker.
Now, this once-promising player is dominating the Premier League, more clinical than even Erling Haaland earlier this season. Reports from CaughtOffside indicate that Manchester United is eyeing Bournemouth's star attacker, Justin Kluivert, for a summer transfer. This mirrors a 2018 report from The Guardian that noted Mourinho's interest in Kluivert, which did not materialize due to various circumstances. Could the stars align now for this much-anticipated reunion?
Kluivert's potential move to United has sparked considerable excitement not just among fans but also among analysts who see a clear fit for him within the team. After a circuitous journey that included his stint at AS Roma and various loan spells, Kluivert has found a robust role within Bournemouth's setup, drawing praise from his coach Andoni Iraola, who described him as “amazing” earlier this season. Kluivert's playing style, characterized by his dual-footedness and ability to thrive in high-pressing systems, makes him a tantalizing option for Manchester United's attacking midfield needs.
He could easily occupy the No. 10 position in Ruben Amorim's tactical setup, complementing the attacking structure needed in Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 formation. Analysts suggest Kluivert is an ideal candidate: a hybrid of Mason Mount but with more goal-scoring ability. The versatility and skillset he brings could greatly bolster United's attacking options, especially when the season is under scrutiny for reliance on a singular striker.
However, any move for Kluivert will not come easy. Competition among clubs looking to secure his services is expected to be intense, especially given his recent performances in the Premier League. Yet, this summer could represent a crucial turning point for Manchester United, as they aim to rectify the shortcomings of their previous transfer decisions and finally give Mourinho a player he has long desired.
The narrative surrounding Kluivert's potential arrival at Old Trafford doesn’t just reflect Mourinho's past but also aligns with United's urgent need for a reinvigorated squad that can compete at the highest levels again. With key figures like Eriksen and Casemiro possibly leaving and a glaring need for more consistent attacking options, the stakes could not be higher for all involved. Whether Mourinho will once again be proven right in his judgment of talent remains to be seen.
Ultimately, the upcoming summer transfer window promises to be a pivotal period for Manchester United. It will test the club's resolve and ambition as they aim to secure the pieces necessary to return to their former glory. Fans are hopeful that this time, the club will heed Mourinho's earlier sentiments and act decisively to ensure the team is not left wanting.
