Why Richarlison to Man United would be a perfect move
According to Bleacher Report, Manchester United are targeting a move for Everton forward Richarlison when the transfer window opens in January.
The 22-year-old Brazilian’s finishing and fluid dribbling abilities have caught the attention of United. As of now, the Red Devils have scored a mere 16 goals from 12 games in the ongoing Premier League season.
Currently 7th on the table, it is safe to suggest that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s search for a goalscorer is far from over, despite their recent win over Brighton.
Since allowing Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku to leave for Inter Milan in the summer, United have been struggling to score goals.
Englishman Marcus Rashford, who prefers to play on the left, has often been utilized in the striker’s role. Though inconsistent at times, he has scored six league goals, including one against the Seagulls over the weekend.
With Anthony Martial’s return, Rashford was shifted to left-wing. Unfortunately, the Frenchman is quite an erratic player and although he is talented enough, his previous displays have proven that he is not the most reliable players around.
In fact, in 7 league appearances, he has managed to score just 3 goals and provide as many assists so far. With a paltry 4.7 shots on target per game, it is no secret that United’s attack is one of the weakest.
Prior to their loss against Bournemouth, United enjoyed a three-game winning streak after a series of unconvincing and inconsistent displays under the Norwegian boss.
However, they did set things right somewhat by notching up a solid win against Brighton.
As far as their midfield is concerned, United are heavily reliant on Paul Pogba. The Frenchman was a lively presence in the middle of the park last season, often helping them out of situations with crucial goals.
With the team looking out of sorts since the season’s inception, they are in dire need of a regular goalscorer.
That said, Richarlison has not been at his best this season when compared to last season.
The versatile forward, who is comfortable playing on both wings, has hit the net just thrice so far.
During his final season with Watford, he registered five goals and four assists and that was enough to convince Everton to sanction a move.
The Merseysiders signed him for a fee reported to be around £50m, according to a BBC report.
Everton, coached by Marco Silva, meanwhile, continue to be dangerously close to the relegation zone and things aren’t looking good for them.
Nevertheless, the Brazilian forward has been their best performer in the league this season with an overall Whoscored rating of 7.16. He is second on the list of assists-providers for the Toffees, with two to his credit. Only Lucas Digne (three assists) has more.
Verdict
Since his days at Watford, the Brazilian has maintained a good shots-per-match ratio. At Watford, it was 2.5, while in his first season at Everton, it turned out to be 2.4. This year has been his best so far, with a 2.6 rating.
Luck often plays a decisive role in football and Richarlison, of all players, has not been the luckiest this season. The Everton forward’s growth has been gradual but it sure looks like one in the right direction.
A directionless United and Ole, meanwhile, should continue to pursue their interests in this young striker.
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A top-finisher and a consistent shot-taker, United need someone of Richarlison’s mould to take their game to the next level and win trophies.
Aged just 22, the player is a perfect fit for Ole’s team philosophy. Moreover, he could be a long-term option for a club undergoing transition.