Striker Saido Berahino sparks Manchester United transfer rumours
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West Bromwich Albion attacker Saido Berahino is being linked with a summer switch to Manchester United, who are odds-on 5/6 with Coral for a Premier League top four finish.
The Burundi-born frontman was spied at Old Trafford as the Red Devils crashed out of the FA Cup against Arsenal, which has predictably led to speculation about the striker’s future.
Berahino’s season has been mixed, with the England Under-21 starlet often impressing on the pitch, but also causing controversy with his off-field antics.
So, the Baggies (16/1 for a top 10 finish) are believed to be ready to cut their losses this summer and sell their most prized asset, with the Old Trafford outfit now said be in the running.
Tottenham and Liverpool are thought to have previously been the most active suitors in the race for Berahino’s signature. So a transfer tussle could ensue, with much likely depending on who secures that coveted fourth Champions League spot.
However, with the Red Devils apparently keen to recruit a new frontman, and Berahino said to be a boyhood United fan, all the pieces would seem to fit.
Louis van Gaal’s side have often lacked pace up front this season, with forwards Robin van Persie and on-loan Radamel Falcao often looking static and slowing down play.
Fleet-footed Berahino would certainly fit the bill, then, as the red half of Manchester attempts to reinvigorate its frontline with some youthful exuberance.
The skilful 21-year-old is a fine finisher with a poacher’s timing and instincts, and burst onto the scene for the Baggies this season, grabbing 18 goals and six assists in 35 appearances across all competitions. Just to put that in perspective, the young sharpshooter has struck four more than superstars Van Persie and Falcao combined.
A prospective partnership of Rooney and Berahino would be fantastic news for Three Lions fans too, with the latter primed for a first senior squad cap and a bright international future.
As for Rooney, the United and England skipper has struggled to form a fluid partnership with both Van Persie and Falcao, and often works best alongside versatile and speedy strikers such as Louis Saha and Danny Welbeck.
With United now facing a second season without silverware, Van Gaal will once again be preparing for a summer spree. If a striker is top of his list, the Dutch coach could do far worse than opting for a rough diamond and Premier League proven Berahino.
