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Manchester United: Marko Arnautovic scouted by Jose Mourinho

By Thomas Bradley Alderman

LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 10: Marko Arnautovic of West Ham United reacts after a challange from Ander Herrera of Manchester United during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Manchester United at London Stadium on May 10, 2018 in London, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 10: Marko Arnautovic of West Ham United reacts after a challange from Ander Herrera of Manchester United during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Manchester United at London Stadium on May 10, 2018 in London, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images) /
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Jose Mourinho took a trip to Austria to scout West Hams’s Marko Arnautovic for Manchester United.

Marko Arnautovic had a great season, so monitoring by any ‘big six’ clubs is no surprise. It is, however, interesting that Jose Mourinho would travel to Austria himself to scout him.

The Hammers bought Arnautovic for £24m in the summer, but they now value him at £50m. Although, according to Sky Sports, the East-London side have no intention of selling him. This didn’t stop Mourinho scouting, under guise of a baseball cap.

Involving himself in 17 goals in all competitions gave the 29-year-old notoriety in 2017/18. He provided an assist for Austria as they beat Russia in a World Cup warm up match. During the forward’s time at Inter Milan, Mourinho was his boss.

The then-young Austrian player had a tempestuous relationship with the Portuguese. Arnautovic only represented Inter three times under the current United manager.

55-year-old Mourinho previously called his target a child. At the time saying:

"“Mario Balotelli is his best friend. Coincidentally they have the same problems. Marko is a great guy, but he has the mentality of a child.”– Jose Mourinho (Via Manchester Evening News)"

Could he get into Man United’s team?

A swift response is, yes. In order to challenge rivals Manchester City, Manchester United need to strengthen in each department. These improvements are preferably with proven elite talent.

With the inflated transfer market showing extortionate price-tags, there are gems to uncover for less or even free. Marko Arnautovic will not cost in the range of Neymar’s £198m, or even Philippe Coutinho’s £105m.

Having a versatile goal scorer along with a clinical provider is essential for the Red Devils at present. Romelu Lukaku had a decent debut season but is at the very least, more one-dimensional than any Old Trafford No. 9 I can think of.

Signing the Hammer gives United rather more options, a right/left/centre attacker. A player who is proven at premiership level. Not only that; demonstrating it for mediocre sides. Applying his hunger, desire, along with Ibrahimovic-like youthfulness will enhance them.

Recruitment at Old Trafford may believe the fee is too high for a man soon turning 30 years old. Observed by their scouts was Sergej Milinkovic, a £97m valuation was consequently found ‘excessive’.

Next: United could win the league with Bale

Also suggested for Mourinho’s visit was possibly to view Aleksandr Golovin. Is £50m a fair price for Arnautovic?

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