Manchester United showed interest in Christian Kofane before he signed with Bayer Leverkusen, and it is proving to be a missed opportunity.
As Manchester United have learned over the post-Ferguson era, player recruitment can make or break the team’s success.
Ineos have got a lot right since taking command, and last summer they struck gold with deals for Senne Lammens, Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko.
But could it have been even better? A bargain swoop for Christian Kofane could have been the icing on the cake.
Christian Kofane runs with the ball
Photo by INA FASSBENDER / AFP via Getty Images
United interested in Christian Kofane, and lost out
Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo reported 12 months ago that Manchester United were among the suitors looking at Kofane.
Kofane was starring for Spanish second tier side Albacete, scoring eight goals in his breakthrough season.
Then just 18, Kofane was an attractive option partly because he had a release clause of just £4 million.
Manchester United’s interest did not turn into anything more substantial. Bayer Leverkusen paid the fee, and are being rewarded already.
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Kofane has already scored seven goals for Leverkusen, also providing eight assists. He caused Arsenal problems in their Champions League tie, and could yet make a decisive impact in the second leg.
He has already made his senior Cameroon debut, scoring twice in four appearances, netting goals at the recent AFCON tournament.
Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes explained when they signed him: “Christian Kofane is an extremely explosive and fast striker who is technically skilled and very assertive.
“He will further diversify our game with his strengths and has the potential to become an important part of our team in the coming years.”
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Manchester United’s right intentions
Manchester United cannot sign every young player they show interest in, but Christian Kofane certainly appears to be a missed opportunity, at just £4 million.
United have taken punts on youngsters Diego Leon, Enzo Kana-Biyik and Sekou Kone recently, and are also set to sign Christian Orozco.
Kofane’s success validates Manchester United’s scouting team, who identified him as a possible target.
This could prompt United to be more aggressive in the transfer market this summer with young players.
Missing out on a Kofane once, it happens. United won’t be so keen for it to happen twice.
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