Former Manchester United forward Dimitar Berbatov has urged the club to not sign in-form Red Bull Leipzig striker Erling Haaland in the winter window as it could end up hampering Marcus Rashford’s progression at Old Trafford.
The Premier League giants are expected to sign a big-name striker in the January transfer window to support Rashford and Anthony Martial upfront, however, ex-United striker Berbatov believes that his former club has enough attacking options at their disposal at the moment.
Erling Haaland has had a stellar season so far, having racked up 23 goals in 18 matches so far and has already got a national call-up for his national side Norway. Despite these great numbers from Haaland, Berbatov is more excited by United’s academy product and prospect 18-year-old Mason Greenwood.
The youngster lit up Old Trafford last night scoring twice in a 4-0 win over Eredivisie outfit AZ Alkmaar in a Europa League group stage tie. Greenwood now has scored 6 goals this season and his development at United could also be hinged if the Red Devils end up signing another young striker which could give him less game time.
While speaking to reporters, the former Bulgaria captain explained the reason as to why United don’t necessarily need to head into the transfer market, “I don’t think United need to sign a striker in January as they have decent options up front already, I want Marcus Rashford to get better and better, I’m a big admirer of Anthony Martial and am keen to see Mason Greenwood get more time on the pitch.” I think United have the talent there and signing a new striker, whether it’s an emerging talent like Haaland or the more experienced Mario Mandzukic, could discourage their young players.”
