Transfer Talk: United linked with shock move for ex-Hammer Arnautovic

Manchester United have had a bid for ex-West Ham and Stoke striker Marko Arnautovic rejected by Bologna.

The Red Devils are in desperate need of reinforcements up front and have now turned their attentions to the 33-year-old Austrian.

But the Mail say the Serie A outfit have rejected a £7.5million offer for their No9, who netted 14 times in the league last term.

Arnautovic last played in the Premier League in 2019 and spent two years in China before moving to Bologna.

Erik ten Hag and assistant Steve McClaren helped him kickstart his career at FC Twente — but he would be a hugely underwhelming signing for United fans.

The report suggests the fact their coaching team know Arnautovic means a deal would be easier to complete compared to alternatives that may look better on paper.

However, that will not placate the Old Trafford faithful, who booed their side off and regularly called for the board to be sacked during their opening defeat to Brighton.

There are also concerns over Arnautovic’s personality within the dressing room, with the Austrian known to cause problems at previous clubs.

According to the Athletic, United are also keen on Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot — though the 27-year-old is another player who has never been short of controversy in his career.

In other news

Callum Hudson-Odoi wants to leave Chelsea and while the Guardian report interest from Southampton and Leeds, the Mail say Borussia Dortmund are also keen.

Reports in Italy say Liverpool want Inter Milan midfielder Marcelo Brozovic and that they would be happy to send Roberto Firmino or Naby Keita the other way in a swap deal.

According to the Express, Manchester United are still looking to sign RB Salzburg’s Benjamin Sesko, 19, but would face competition from Newcastle, say the Northern Echo.