By Guest Writer Ryan Kane.
Diego Forlan has been widely linked with a sensational return to Manchester United following an impressive World Cup campaign with Uruguay. The 31-year old striker has been in fine form of late, scoring the winner for Athletico Madrid in this years Europa League final as the Spanish side saw off Fulham 2-1. Forlan, who couldn’t hit a barn door during his time at United has scored 4 goals in 5 games thus far for Uruguay in this summer’s World Cup. The two-time European Golden boot winner has been praised by United coach Rene Meulensteen, the Dutchman stating that he would “happily” see Forlan back at Old Trafford in his “current form”.
The Uruguayan scored just 10 goals during his two year stint at United, but with the striker in his notable recent form many fans would love to see him once again don the red jersey and take to the field at “The Theatre of Dreams”. Coach Meulensteen believed Forlan was “at the wrong place at the wrong time” during his spell with the Red Devil’s but believes that the striker has now “developed fantastically” into a “complete athlete”.
Forlan is expected to be valued in the region of €25 million by Athletico Madrid, although the Spanish club may now rise their asking price following the strikers impressive World Cup performances. Meulensteen apparently sent Forlan a text message following his remarkable Europa League final show in which he scored two goals, reading: “Top class, if its up to me you will return with us”. The Uruguayan then reportedly replied “I am ready for it”, sparking speculation the forward will now return to United to fulfil the role of Dimitar Berbatov, who seemingly is on his way out of the club following two dismal seasons at Old Trafford.
Forlan’s Uruguay will play Holland in the World Cup semi-finals on Monday as the South Americans dream of an illustrious place in the final. The Uruguayan number ten scored the equalizer in his sides 1-1 draw with Ghana earlier this week, which they later went on to win 4-2 on penalties.
