'Cannot leave like this' - Besiktas director tells Man Utd what they must do to complete complex Weghorst deal

Besiktas director Ceyhun Kazanci has told Manchester United what they must to do to sign Wout Weghorst in January.

Erik ten Hag's striker search has taken him across Europe in recent weeks, with the likes of Bayern Munich's Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, Atletico Madrid's Joao Felix and AC Milan's Olivier Giroud all linked with moves to Old Trafford.

The club are now reportedly exploring a move for Besiktas star Weghorst, who has eight goals in 16 appearances for the Turkish Super Lig side this season.

A powerful striker who is exceptionally strong in the air, he could perhaps provide a different outlet for the Red Devils as they search for a replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo.

But they have plenty of hurdles to jump over to seal the move. The main hurdle is that Weghorst is currently signed to Championship side Burnley.

The Clarets made a move for the Netherlands international last January, when they were still in the Premier League. But he could not help them stay in the division, scoring just twice, and the club were quick to get the 30-year-old off their books on a temporary basis to Besiktas following relegation.

In addition, BBC Sport claim that there is no break clause in Weghorst's loan contract, meaning that United may have to approach Burnley directly to do a deal.

There is no guarantee that the Clarets would agree to such a demand - and Besiktas director Ceyhun Kazanci has made it clear to United what they must do to sign the Dutchman.

Besiktas director sends warning to Man Utd

Kazanci explained (quotes via Fabrizio Romano): "If Man Utd want Weghorst, they have to discuss first with Burnley, who will then contact us.

"If we accept, loan will be terminated. Otherwise, it will continue until June. He cannot leave like this. There will have to be compensation for us."

The comments on compensation suggests that Besiktas will require a payment to be made to them to release Weghorst from his loan contract, meaning United may have to offer a loan fee to Burnley in order to sign the forward. That is because the Turkish giants do have an option to make the 30-year-old's signing permanent in the summer.

It is certainly a complicated deal, and an unusual one with three parties involved to such an extent, but Ten Hag and supporters will hope any problems can be quickly ironed out.