Manchester United have deployed scouts to keep an eye on Gent striker Gift Orban, as per reports from the Evening Standard.
Orban, who joined the Belgian club from Stabaek in January, has been delivering exceptional performances. With 19 goals in 19 games since his move to the Jupiler Pro League, the Nigerian has attracted the attention of several Premier League clubs, including Chelsea, Fulham, and Tottenham Hotspur.
Orban’s goal-scoring prowess, averaging a goal every 75 minutes, has impressed United, who are in search of a striker in the upcoming transfer window.
However, Genk is not looking to part ways with the 20-year-old, and many top European clubs have also sent scouts to watch him play.
While the Red Devils have also shown interest in Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen from Napoli, his high price tag may prompt the club to consider Orban as a more affordable option.
Genk is expected to demand a significant fee for Orban, who is under contract until 2027. Nevertheless, there is a possibility of securing him for less than €20 million, given that he joined Gent for a mere €3.3 million.
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Although United aims to sign an established striker, the young and promising Orban should not be overlooked. His impressive performances include scoring five goals in the Europa Conference League, and he has the potential to adapt quickly to the Premier League.
In fact, Orban set a new record for the fastest hat trick in UEFA club competitions with a three-goal cameo in just three minutes and 25 seconds during a 4-1 away victory over Istanbul Basaksehir in March.
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While Orban is content to remain at Genk for the time being, rejecting United’s interest would be difficult. Acquiring Orban would likely be a significant coup for the Red Devils, especially considering the competition from other suitors in the upcoming transfer window.
