Transfers
Man Utd plot loan for 6ft5 goal machine as deadline looms
Man Utd are reportedly plotting a last‑minute loan offer for 30‑year‑old Norwegian striker Alexander Sorloth, whose £30 million price tag has deterred a permanent deal, making a temporary move the most realistic option as the Premier League club seeks extra firepower ahead of the Tuesday deadline.
Physical profile and LaLiga record
Sorloth stands at 6ft 5in and has become a recognised goal machine after three prolific seasons in LaLiga with Villarreal and Atletico Madrid, where his physicality and finishing have produced a steady stream of goals. At 30, the Norway international is unlikely to command a full transfer fee of £30 million, prompting United to consider a loan instead. The striker’s ability to hold up play and win aerial duels fits the profile United need as a backup for Benjamin Sesko.
United's squad needs and transfer targets
United bounced back with a convincing 5‑2 win over Ipswich Town after an opening‑day defeat to Hull City, but left‑back Luke Shaw’s error highlighted the club’s desire for more competition on that flank. Interest in Lewis Hall and Alejandro Balde remains, yet the costs have proved prohibitive, leaving the club to focus on the last minute loan market. With Joshua Zirkzee expected to leave within 40 hours, United also monitor Juventus as a potential suitor for the Dutchman after Fiorentina’s bid was rejected.
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Coach’s assessment and tactical fit
Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone praised Sorloth’s versatility, saying, “What I like about him is that he’s important in every moment and context of the game you can imagine. If we need to attack, he gives us a strong offensive weight in the area.” United’s technical staff, led by Michael Carrick, see the Norwegian as a suitable option to provide goal‑scoring depth without displacing the first‑choice striker.
United and Carrick are looking for a centre‑forward who can operate from the bench or start in congested fixtures, offering a physical presence that complements the Red Devils’ attacking style. Sorloth’s height and LaLiga experience make him a plausible answer to that requirement, especially when Sesko faces a three‑game week.
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Action Images via Reuters/Lee Smith By  James Beavis AM GMT+1 is a Senior Editor at GIVEMESPORT, a Sports Journalism graduate of Southampton Solent University. He has worked for over ten years, joining Football FanCast in 2016 after a three‑year spell at Shoot Magazine, before moving to GMS in 2020. Beavis creates exclusive Premier League content for GiveMeSport and Us, encouraging readers to Follow, Try and Give feedback.