Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Man Utd 'set sights' on marquee signing in potential British record transfer

Manchester United are plotting a sensational move for a brand new striker, according to reports.

The Red Devils have been under the spotlight recently following their worst start to a new season in 61 years.

Consecutive Premier League wins over Fulham and Luton have helped cool the pressure on Erik ten Hag.

However, a shock 4-3 defeat to FC Copenhagen in the Champions League has left them languishing at the bottom of their group, with the United boss staring down the barrel of a group stage exit.

Rasmus Hojlund has been the one shining light in Europe and sits top of the tournament's goalscoring charts, having netted five times in the competition already.

However, Old Trafford scouts have reportedly set their sights on a brand new striker in the shape of Brighton's Evan Ferguson.

The 19-year-old has set the Premier League alight this season, scoring five goals in the top-flight already this term, including an impressive hat-trick against Newcastle in September.

While his efforts have been rewarded with a brand new contract at the Amex, with the forward putting pen to paper on a six-year contract earlier this month.

However, United haven't let the Republic of Ireland international's new contract get in the way of their pursuit, and they are keen to lure Ferguson to Old Trafford in the near future, claim Football Insider.

With British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe on the verge of securing a 25% stake in the club, there is expected to be further investment in the first-team squad, making the likes of Ferguson a more viable option.

Topics: Football, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Manchester United, Evan Ferguson, Premier League, Brighton And Hove Albion, Transfers, Erik Ten Hag

Joe Adams

Joe is a Journalist for SPORTbible with a primary focus on football. He has previously covered a number of other sports including boxing, rugby and F1. Wishes he was born left-footed.

@joeadamsjourno