DONE DEAL :Eberechi Eze to MANCHESTER UNITED

Eberechi Eze, wearing a Crystal Palace jacket, stands with fireworks lighting up the background.

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag faces a critical challenge: determining his ideal front three. With United scoring only two goals in their opening three Premier League matches, the return of Rasmus Højlund from injury is highly anticipated. Højlund has been sidelined since July with a hamstring issue.

In his absence, Bruno Fernandes and Joshua Zirkzee have both filled the striker position, with Zirkzee making his debut in United’s 3-0 defeat to Liverpool. That match also saw Alejandro Garnacho start for the first time this season, playing on the right wing while Marcus Rashford featured on the left.

Many United supporters feel that Amad, Højlund, and Garnacho should be the preferred front three, with Rashford excluded. Over the summer, United reshaped their wide options, selling Facundo Pellistri and loaning Jadon Sancho. The current wing options include Rashford, Garnacho, Amad, and Antony, who has not started a game for United since May.

After two years at the club, Antony’s performances have frustrated many fans, and with only one substitute appearance this season, it seems Ten Hag’s faith in the Brazilian may be waning. Reports suggest United could target a new winger next summer, possibly phasing Antony out. One potential addition is Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze, 26, who could bring valuable depth to United’s attack.

Since his move from QPR to Palace in 2020, Eze’s career has seen a rapid rise. He’s scored double-digit goals in the past two Premier League seasons, made his debut for England, and even played for the national team in a major tournament.

A popular figure in Fantasy Premier League, Eze’s ability to both score and assist has caught attention. He is among the most sought-after players not currently with a ‘big six’ Premier League club.

Eze’s versatility is a key strength. He can operate as both an attacking midfielder and a winger, typically on the left, making him a dynamic threat across multiple positions. He excels at dribbling, advancing the play, and is a constant creative force in the final third.

According to Transfermarkt, Eze played 16 matches as an attacking midfielder and nine as a left winger for Palace last season. He scored six goals from the center and five from the wing, demonstrating his effectiveness in both areas.

With concerns over Rashford’s consistency and Garnacho’s potential to take over the right-wing position, United might consider strengthening their left flank in the near future. Eze could provide a solution, offering a player who thrives in both the No.10 and wide roles, enhancing their attacking options.

Teams like Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester City have recently acquired players who can excel in various attacking roles. Liverpool, in particular, have successfully integrated forwards who are equally impactful on the wing and through the middle.

This versatility makes Eze an appealing target for United, who currently lack a player equally adept as a No.10 and out wide. Fernandes, United’s primary playmaker, has occasionally played on the right but is far better suited to a central role.