Manchester United make contact with World Cup star ahead of summer transfer window

Erik ten Hag became the first Manchester United manager in six years to guide the club to a trophy as they beat Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup final on Sunday. 

Casemiro’s header put The Red Devils ahead before Marcus Rashford doubled their lead just minutes later, and Ten Hag’s side held on to lift silverware for the first time since 2017.

Despite their success, the Dutchman insisted that his side would waste no time in returning to training, with an FA Cup fifth round tie against West Ham United awaiting them on Wednesday evening.

United remain in contention to complete an unprecedented quadruple as they sit eight points behind Premier League leaders Arsenal and face Real Betis in the last 16 of the Europa League.

Ten Hag’s influence on his side during a relatively short space of time is undeniable, but it appears that he is still keen to bolster his squad.

According to Football Insider, the ex-Ajax boss could raid former his former side for forward Mohammed Kudus.

The Ghana international as impressed for Ajax this season, scoring 16 goals across all competitions, and it appears that his form has prompted interest from United.

Kudus is a target for Manchester United this summer

The Premier League side are said to have already made contact with the player ahead of a potential offer when the transfer window opens this summer.

Kudus, 22, is said to be keen on the idea of a reunion with Ten Hag, although a deal could reportedly cost as much as £48 million.

The forward impressed for his country at the World Cup in Qatar last year, scoring twice as Ghana crashed out at the group stage.

United lost Cristiano Ronaldo back in November when the Portuguese’s contract was terminated by mutual consent, and they have only signed Wout Weghorst on a short-term loan as a replacement.

The Red Devils are therefore expected to be in the market for at least one forward this summer, and Kudus is said to be of interest to the club.

The striker is said to be keen on a move to the Premier League, with a proposed switch to Everton having collapsed in the final stages last summer.