- Manchester United in race for prolific frontman
- Franculino Dju is thriving this season
- Several European clubs keen
Manchester United have added another name to their summer transfer list. They appear to have their sights set on a young frontman catching the eye in Denmark.
The Reds are among several Premier League clubs tracking FC Midtjylland striker Franculino Dju, a 21-year-old Guinea-Bissau international who has been tearing up the Danish Superliga.
A report from Estadio Deportivo, as relayed by Sport Witness claims that United are in the mix for the forward. It’s previously been said that he is on the club’s radar due to uncertainty over Joshua Zirkzee’s future.
Franculino emerged as a possible replacement for Zirkzee in the winter. The Dutch attacker eventually remained at Old Trafford, but with the player expected to depart in the summer, United have seemingly reignited their interest in the Midtjylland sensation.
Franculino’s Beastly Numbers
This season, Franculino, described as a ‘beast’, has hit top form. In just 20 Superliga starts, he has netted 17 goals and provided 3 assists, averaging roughly a goal every 77 minutes. His conversion rate sits at an impressive 40%, with 14 of his 17 league goals coming from his stronger left foot, per SofaScore.
Franculino’s overall season has been phenomenal, with 22 goals and 3 assists in 32 games in all competitions. His tall frame, mobility and pace of a winger make him a difficult forward to handle. He has been described as a goal machine with the potential to be a long-term No.9 at a big club.
Midtjylland’s Stance
Midtjylland sporting director Kristian Bach Bak has been transparent about the possibility of a summer departure. He told Campo:
“Franculino has been injured and has just come back. Fortunately, he scores at Brondby Stadium. And let’s say he gets back to that level and scores in the remaining matches. Then the plan is the same”.
The Danish club is aiming for a fee exceeding €25 million, which would set a new club record.
Carrick’s United will not have an easy run to sign the forward. Liverpool, Everton and West Ham United have all sent scouts to Denmark to track his progress, while Real Betis, Bayern Munich and AS Roma are also said to be interested. Meanwhile, Betis have already made contact with the Superliga club.
For a reported fee of around €25 million, Franculino represents a relatively low-risk investment with considerable return. The Red Devils have monitored his progress since last year, and with Zirkzee expected to depart, the need to sign attacking options is clear.
The Guinea-Bissau international has the numbers, the physicality fitted to the Premier League and the ambition to make the step up. Whether Old Trafford will be his destination remains to be seen.
