When Manchester United signed Wout Weghorst there was a logic, but a lack of quality.
The striker was a means to an end transfer but ultimately one that failed. The Dutchman did not find the net in a Premier League game and has now returned to Burnley.
The Old Trafford hope was a big name, big money summer striker signing. A Harry Kane, a Victor Osimhen. But with £60million having been splashed on Mason Mount and a new goalkeeper required, United and Erik Ten Hag find themselves in the same boat as they did in January.
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They need a centre forward but they don’t have the money to buy premium. Weghorst 2.0 is required. And in Mehdi Taremi, United have a player capable of being what they hoped Weghorst would be.
The Porto striker has been a target for Everton and Newcastle United and is open to a Premier League move. He might not be a stellar name but he has an impressive goalscoring record in Portugal and caught the eye at the World Cup for Iran.
Indeed he netted twice against England and scores at better than a goal every other game across his career. Since arriving at Porto he’s shone domestically and in Europe, netting a stunning overhead kick against Chelsea in a Champions League quarter final in 2021.
He certainly knows where the net is and his profile would suit United as a goal getter but also a focal point capable of bringing others into play. His contract is up next summer and although at 30 he’s not a long term solution, he’s a more than capable addition who could thrive in England and for United.
Taremi can be the player Ten Hag hoped Weghorst would be. And for a cut price £17m it can be money well spent.
