Moussa Dembele keen on move to Manchester United

According to the Daily Star, Manchester United have left Chelsea behind in the race to sign Lyon striker Moussa Dembele.

The 23-year-old has enjoyed an excellent season at the Groupama Stadium and has scored an impressive 22 goals and 7 assists in 42 appearances.

In a major boost for our chances in signing him, he prefers to move to Old Trafford over Stamford Bridge. He will, however, not come cheap.

United have used Marcus Rashford as their first choice centre-back this season. Although Anthony Martial and Mason Greenwood can deputize up front, the Red Devils failed to replace the outgoing Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Sanchez.

Odion Ighalo has done a commendable job, his future is far from certain. At 30, he is also not a long-term option if signed permanently.

United are increasingly confident of getting Dembele, having scouted him extensively over the past few months. Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has sent scouts to watch Dembele at least three times in the last six months and is keen to convince him to make a switch to Old Trafford.

The Frenchman has the experience of playing in England, having made more than 150 appearances for Fulham and Celtic. He has made two appearances for the Cottagers in the Premier League.

With Lyon missing out on European competition for next season, an opportunity has opened up for Ed Woodward to take advantage of.

The Ligue 1club are also facing financial problems due to the crippling effects of Covid-19. Club president Jean-Michel Aulas has openly admitted that he might have no choice but to sell Dembele.

According to the report, United are in a strong financial position and will be able to outbid Chelsea, while also offering Dembele better terms.

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At just 23, Dembele has shown he has the ability to find the net on a consistent basis. He will make a shrewd signing for United.