Amad’s destiny at Manchester United next season rests on four aspects
Those who observed Amad’s development last season will not be surprised to hear that a number of clubs are reportedly interested in signing him this summer.
His 14 goals for Sunderland, including a sublime free-kick goal in the semi-finals of the Championship play-offs, validated the hype his fanbase had long propagated. However, there is more to come.
Amad is no longer a teenager, but at age 20, he has the world at his disposal if he can realize his potential. He is in good hands with Erik ten Hag, who developed Hakim Ziyech and Frenkie De Jong from promising young players into European superstars.
Regarding a permanent transfer, he won’t let Amad go, but another loan is a distinct possibility, if not a probability. The likelihood of Amad ripping up the turf at Old Trafford during the upcoming season is contingent on four factors.
The first is United’s ability to shed unwanted personnel. Those who are surplus to requirements must be moved this summer, or Ten Hag risks not being able to acquire an adequate striker.
The purchase of midfielder Mason Mount and the imminent arrival of goalkeeper Andre Onana at Old Trafford notwithstanding, United’s top priority this summer has always been a center forward.
With only a £120m transfer budget, they are now in a position where they must offload current squad members to make room for a striker – the combined payments for Onana and Mount are expected to approach £100m.
Last season, Rasmus Hojlund scored 16 goals, including nine in 32 Serie A matches. According to reports, Atalanta desires £60 million for him. This may be partially due to the massive influx of Saudi investment, but the inflated fees for ostensibly risky signings could pose a problem for United and other clubs this summer.
The Reds will be able to raise sufficient funds if they are able to sell the necessary players, but historically, the club has been poor at maximizing the value of its players. If United is unable to acquire a striker, Amad’s significance for the upcoming season will increase.
United’s mission to acquire a new centre-forward this summer is contingent on more than just financial considerations. The second component is signing someone.
If they are unable to do so, Amad may be told he is needed at Old Trafford; however, if a suitable replacement emerges, he may be loaned out. Ten Hag’s decision will be determined by United’s capacity to sign a quality forward.
There is an additional factor that could outweigh the others. Amad will likely be selected for the preseason tour of the United States, which provides the ideal opportunity for him to make his impression.
Given his value to the club, the youngster’s mission will be to convince Ten Hag that he cannot afford to loan him out this summer.
The final consideration is whether or not Anthony Martial departs. Given the limited budget and the likelihood that United will receive pennies for Marcus Rashford, a backup striker will be required, preferably not just Rashford.
Regardless, Amad has a positive outlook on the situation. Several newly-promoted Premier League clubs are rumored to be interested, should Ten Hag opt for a loan.
If he remains, he could have a significant impact on United’s season, similar to what Alejandro Garnacho did last year. If Amad continues on his current trajectory, he will be a stronger player at this time next year regardless of the path taken.
Amad’s destiny at Manchester United next season rests on four aspects