Ralf Rangnick is eyeing his first signing as Manchester United manager, with the club making contact with a forward ahead of his release clause going up in January.
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Life at United has started quite well for Rangnick, with two Premier League wins under his belt in his opening two games, though their most recent two games were postponed due to a Covid outbreak.
Though the German is only initially going to be United boss until the end of the season it is expected that he will be allowed to make improvements to the squad in January.
So far he's been linked with defenders and midfielders but, with Anthony Martial expected to leave, he could also look to improve the forward line.
According to Argentine outlet Ole, United have already approached River Plate over the possibility of signing Julia Alvarez, as they look to beat their rivals and his contract clause.
Currently the 21-year-old is available for £17 million but that will rise to £21 million in the last 10 days of January, meaning United could look to move quickly.
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As well as the increase in price, it's also thought that other big clubs across Europe are looking into signing the forward, who can play through the middle or wide.
Whilst Aston Villa were linked with the player earlier in the year, his form has now attracted the interests of the likes of Bayern Munich, AC Milan, Juventus, Inter Milan, and Atletico Madrid.
Alvarez has scored 24 goals and also put on 15 assists for his teammates in 46 games this year, so it's easy to see why clubs are interested in him.
Speaking after a firing a brace to help his team win the Trofeo de Campeones, having already won the league title, Alvarez reacted to stories about his future.
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"Frankly, I don’t know what will happen, now I’m only thinking about celebrating. In January we will see," the Argentina international told reporters.
Asked about a potential move impacting his chances of playing at next winter's World Cup, Alvarez added, "We all know how much the World Cup means for a player.
"When I make my decision I’ll choose what’s best for me."
At 21 they'll be plenty more chances for him to play at the World Cup, especially if FIFA increase the tournaments to happening once every other year, but impressing in Europe will definitely help his chances of making it to Qatar.
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Sergio Aguero's recent forced retirement has also helped his chances and a move to United might also be sped up if Barcelona try to replace the former Manchester City man with Edinson Cavani.
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Transfers, Manchester United, Premier League, River Plate, Argentina