According to Erik ten Hag, Wout Weghorst hasn’t finalised his move to Old Trafford, and therefore he won’t be available for the Manchester derby.
The former Wolfsburg and AZ Alkmaar striker scored nine goals in 18 games for Besiktas and added two goals last month in Holland’s World Cup quarterfinal victory over Argentina.
After agreeing to pay Benfica £2.5 million to end his loan with the Turkish club, Manchester United was in a race against time to finalise the transfer so they could be able to utilise him against the Citizens.
However, Weghorst will be unable to make his debut in the next game as his transfer was not finalised by today’s noon time. He might thus make his debut when United visit Crystal Palace on Wednesday.
Although the United manager acknowledges that they were unable to complete the move in time, he maintains that it is “near” being done. As reported by Sky Sports, the gaffer said:
“I think we are close. But he wouldn’t be available for tomorrow. Hopefully it will be soon, he will be there.”
Ten Hag also revealed that a late decision will be made over Anthony Martial’s leg injury, and Diogo Dalot won’t be available to play in the derby. Donny van de Beek has also been sidelined for the remainder of the season.
Ten Hag’s men will be looking to continue their rich vein of form and secure their spot in the top four of the league table. United suffered a heavy defeat in their last encounter against Pep Guardiola’s side and will be aiming to make a statement win this time.
