Manchester United 'hold talks over January move for Mohammed Kudus'

Manchester United have reportedly held 'behind-the-scenes talks' for Mohammed Kudus, as the Red Devils considering making an offer for the Ajax attacker this month.

The 20-time English champions are working to sign a new forward during the January transfer window, as Cristiano Ronaldo's exit at the end of November has left them short of options in the final third of the field.

Kudus's future has been the subject of speculation in recent weeks, with a number of clubs said to be interested in signing the 22-year-old in the winter market.

According to 90min, Man United are currently exploring a move for the Ghana international, who is well known to Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag following their time together in Amsterdam.

The report claims that the Premier League side are yet to make an official offer, but there have been discussions over a possible January move for the versatile forward.

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The Red Devils are allegedly exploring whether it would be possible to sign Kudus on loan for the remainder of the season, with the option to make the move permanent this summer.

The attacker has been in strong form for Ajax during the 2022-23 campaign, scoring 10 goals and registering two assists in 21 appearances in all competitions.

Kudus has five goals in 14 Eredivisie outings this term, while he scored four goals and provided two assists in six appearances in the group stage of the Champions League.

The forward was also in action for Ghana at the 2022 World Cup, scoring twice in three appearances at the competition.

Everton came close to signing Kudus during last summer's transfer window, while Liverpool and Newcastle United are among the clubs to be credited with an interest.

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Barcelona sporting director Jordi Cruyff has also confirmed that his side are "tracking" him.

"We've been tracking Mohammed Kudus for more than one year. We can't say now that Barca want Kudus... but he's attracting interest," Cruyff told RAC1.

"He's scoring goals and in Holland, they discuss a lot about his position, so yes – I know him well."

The former Nordsjaelland youngster has primarily played as a striker for Ajax this season, but he is capable of operating in a number of positions in the final third of the field.

Man United could allegedly be restricted to loan moves this month, as the club's owners, the Glazers, are in discussions over selling the 20-time English champions.

A short-term switch for Crystal Palace's Jack Butland is also reportedly on the verge of being completed.