Man Utd Close In On 20-Goal La Liga Striker, Player Keen On Move

As the opening of the summer transfer window approaches, managers are working hard identifying targets and lining-up potential deals so we’ll bring you all the news and gossip. Today, Manchester United are linked with Mario Mandzukic….

Manchester United are being tipped to sign Mario Mandzukic from Atletico Madrid with Louis van Gaal identifying the Croatian international as the ideal replacement for Robin van Persie, according to reports.

Mandzukic only joined Atletico in a £16m move from Bayern Munich last summer but after an excellent start to life in Spain, the 29-year-old’s form dipped drastically after the New Year amid rumours of a fall-out with coaching staff.

The Croatian netted 20 goals in all competitions before the end of February but failed to register another goal during the closing stages of the campaign after losing his first team place and now the striker is expected to move on this summer.

United were linked with Mandzukic last year and it seems the Red Devils are ready to renew their interest with reports suggesting they are closing in on a deal after Louis van Gaal made him one of his key targets.

The Daily Mail also claim Atletico have made contact with United to offer them the chance to sign the striker and although there is interest from throughout Europe, a move to Old Trafford could be on the cards as Mandzukic is understood to favour a move to the Premier League.

van Gaal is on the look out for another striker after rejecting the chance to sign Radamel Falcao on a permanent basis but the Daily Star suggest that Mandzukic is being eyed as a potential replacement for Robin van Persie – who’s tipped to head for Italy this summer.

The Dutchman struggled for form and fitness last season and with his first team place now not guaranteed at Old Trafford, it would be no surprise if he looked for a move with the likes of Juventus and Lazio reportedly keen.

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Mandzukic would be an interesting signing for United as he’s not like any of the other strikers they currently have on the books. He’s more of a target man and with Marouane Fellaini often used in a more advanced role during the second half of last season, perhaps van Gaal is eyeing Mandzukic as a more orthodox front-man.

His goal scoring record is still very good, with 168 goals in 373 career games, but Mandzukic would also bring a lot more to the attack in terms of build-up play, so I think he’d be a useful addition if van Gaal manages to get a deal agreed.