Manchester United on Friday officially completed their shock loan signing of Wout Weghorst from Burnley in the January transfer window.
Weghorst, who was loaned out to Turkish side Besiktas last summer, emerged as a surprise transfer target for United after the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo.
The 30-year-old Dutch striker made an impact at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar for the Netherlands after coming off the bench and scoring a brace against Argentina.
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Weghorst has made 18 appearances for Besiktas this season, with the Netherlands international scoring nine times and registering four assists.
United manager Erik ten Hag has been keen to reinforce his attacking options and provide a much-needed back-up for France international Anthony Martial.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, United agreed to a reported £2.7m fee with Besiktas and Weghorst flew out to Manchester on Thursday ahead of completing his move to Old Trafford.
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“I feel privileged to be joining Manchester United. I’ve played against the club in the past and it’s a fantastic feeling to now have the chance to pull on the famous red shirt,” Weghorst told United's official website.
“I’ve seen United’s progress under Erik ten Hag this season and can’t wait to start playing my part in pushing the team towards its aims.
“Whatever happens in the next few months, I can promise to give everything to the club for as long as I am here.
“I thank everyone who has played a part in getting me to this stage, and now I am looking forward to meeting my new team-mates and getting involved straight away.”
During his debut season with Burnley, Weghorst only managed to score two times and picked up three assists in 20 Premier League appearances.
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Weghorst appeared to wave his final farewell to the Besiktas fans in his side’s 2-1 Super Lig win against Kasimpasa last Saturday.
Speaking after the announcement of Weghorst’s six-month loan deal, United football director John Murtough said in a statement: “Wout has a consistent goalscoring record across several European leagues, and his attributes will add a further dimension to our squad for the remainder of the season.
“We were also attracted by his strong personality and dedicated approach to football, which fits perfectly with the spirit that Erik is building within our squad.
“He has shown a huge desire to join Manchester United and be part of what we’re striving to achieve this season.”
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READ MORE:
- Besiktas president claims Weghorst could remain with Turkish club in major blow for Manchester United
- Cristiano Ronaldo may have helped Manchester United sign Wout Weghorst as Besiktas stance revealed
- Wesley Sneijder can’t believe Manchester United want Wout Weghorst
Ten Hag had openly spoken about his desire to sign a new forward before the January window closed, irrespective of United’s financial position.
Speaking on signing a new forward, the United boss said: “I think we have a good team when all the players are available.
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“But with many games coming up, I think there is a need. But you need one who can have an impact, otherwise you are just burning money and you don’t strengthen the squad and it doesn’t help you.”
The Red Devils have been on a remarkable run of form since the end of the World Cup, with Ten Hag pushing for a top-four Premier League finish this season.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Wout Weghorst, Manchester United, Premier League, England, Football
