Moise Kean remains trapped in a dilemma that grows by the day. Fiorentina know they have a striker in their hands that many want, but Manchester United seem determined not to let go of the rope. In Florence, there is talk of real interest. Corriere Fiorentino, via Sport Witness, points out that it is not just a rumour, because in addition to the English, Galatasaray have already made a move, and it is even said that Napoli are considering entering the fray.
Kean scored 25 goals last season, has an affordable salary and a clause of around €52m. Everything fits together to shake up a market increasingly short of reliable strikers. The player, in the meantime, is in no hurry to analyse if his future is in England, Turkey, or Serie A. Fiorentina want to convince him with an improved contract, but the feeling is that if someone pays the clause, there will be no turning back. An intense week is coming, where every meeting can tip the balance.
The Manchester United case reveals more edges. According to Corriere Fiorentino, the Red Devils do not stop sounding out the operation because their offensive deficiencies are still open. Antony, the star signing, is not convincing, and his irregularity fuels doubts inside and outside Old Trafford. The Brazilian has had some sparks, but he has not been able to sustain a level that justifies the investment. Rasmus Hojlund has struggled with consistency last season, along with Joshua Zirkzee.
The situation, for many, shows that a number nine with the instinct of scoring goals and character is needed, something that Kean could offer. The problem is twofold: on the one hand, convincing the player to leave Italy; on the other, meeting the price of his clause, knowing that Galatasaray promise to go all the way for him. If United want Kean, they will have to move decisively, without repeating recent mistakes.
In our view, United can’t afford any more patches up front. The lack of goals has taken its toll on them throughout the 24/25 campaign, and hoping Antony wakes up to his best is becoming more improbable by the day. The Red Devils are looking to sell him, but face a deadlock. Ruben Amorim, a coach who favours high pressing and vertical attacking, would know how to fit Kean as a permanent striker, taking advantage of his stride, ability to fight against centre-backs and nose for goal in the penalty area.
To force his signing, they must act quickly, sit down with the agent, put the clause on the table without haggling and offer a project with a guaranteed starting place. Among his virtues are his youth, mobility and a certain maturity acquired after irregular periods. The risk exists, as the Italian’s sometimes explosive character and a certain disconnection in big games can weigh him down.
Still, in a squad bereft of goals, Kean is a better fit than other failed experiments. If United are to be feared again, they need a striker who can keep his finger on the pulse, and Moise looks ready to shoulder that burden. The question is whether Old Trafford have the courage to make it happen before Galatasaray or Napoli steal their wallet.
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