Manchester United prefer Vinicius over Jimenez

Manchester United may miss out on Wolves striker Raul Jimenez according to reports, but there is reason to believe that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is no longer keen on the 29-year-old foward.

The Mexican striker was linked to United in the winter transfer window, and while some believe that the rumour was a ploy to earn a new contract with his current club, United’s interest was genuine.

The club were looking for a new signing after missing out on Erling Haaland, who they had expected to sign from Red Ball Salzburg before he decided to join Borussia Dortmund. The club’s panic ended when they ultimately bought Bruno Fernandes from Sporting Lisbon in January.

Following the injury to Marcus Rashford, they also brought in Odion Ighalo from Shanghai Shenhua on loan, and his likely return to China could mean United turn their attention back to Jimenez, but they are likely to aim for a younger signing. Liverpool, meanwhile, are reportedly keen on Jimenez as well, but it is hard to see why they would spend a hefty sum on a player who is likely at or already past his peak.

Meanwhile, O Jogo reports that United also hold an interest in Carlos Vinicius, Benfica’s 25-year-old Brazilian striker. The player is unlikely to leave as the Portuguese club would rather keep him for another season in order to further raise his value ahead of any sale.

The club have been linked to other forwards who are not out-and-out strikers, suggesting the club are keen on sorting out that position as a priority. Jadon Sancho of Borussia Dortmund is one such possibility, along with Aston Villa’s Jack Grealish, who will likely be the cheapest of the three under consideration, and Leicester City’s James Maddison is also on the shortlist. These would fit United’s new profile of young British talent.