Man United ‘decide NOT to sign Wout Weghorst on a permanent deal’ as Ten Hag targets four strikers

Manchester United have decided not to sign Wout Weghorst on a permanent contract with Erik ten Hag who is preparing a four-man shortlist for a new striker this summer.

The Burnley striker was loaned out to the Red Devils in January but scored just two goals in 26 appearances.

He arrived at Besiktas after a positive spell during the first half of the season, scoring nine goals in 18 games.

The big target man also impressed at the World Cup in Qatar, but has failed to make a big impression at Old Trafford, despite playing regularly and endearing himself to supporters with his work-rate.

Weghorst started the first 19 games he was available for in all competitions, but has since dropped down the ranks with substitute appearances.

The 30-year-old has yet to make it in 13 Premier League appearances, which has led to criticism that he is not good enough for a club of this size.

Weghorst still has two years left on his Burnley contract after joining The Clarets from Wolfsburg in January 2022 for £12.5 million.

A new striker is the priority in the summer for United, with Tottenham Hotspur’s Harry Kane the main target.

Napoli hit man Victor Osimhen is also a player admired by Ten Hag Eintracht Frankfurt striker Randal Kolo Muani and Atalanta goalscorer Rasmus Hojlund have been looked at.

Erik ten Hag has drawn up a rush list with Weghorst on the way back to Burnley

Harry Kane (centre) is United’s main target, but it will be difficult to lure him away from the Spurs

United already have a wealth of forwards, but only Marcus Rashford has delivered consistently this season.

Their lack of a focal point through the middle was obvious at times.

They have found the net in the top flight just 49 times so far this season. No other team in the top seven scored less than 60.