With rising talk of Dutch international striker Wout Weghorst becoming Cristiano Ronaldo’s replacement at Manchester United, the question on everyone’s mind is: what exactly does Weghorst do, and why do United want him?

It’s fair to say things haven’t worked out for him at Burnley, from whom he is on loan at Beşiktaş, despite producing impressive goalscoring tallies at every other club he’s been at. For the national team, he’s seen as a valuable asset and a useful player to have on the pitch or on the bench as an impact substitute. In just eight games at major tournaments, he’s managed three goals — including a late double against Argentina to take the Netherlands to penalties. 

At 6 ft 6, the Weghorst has developed a reputation for being strong and aerially dominant — some of the essential qualities of a classic No 9, a target man. Erik Ten Haag’s relatively nimble side lacks a player like this. When you consider Luke Shaw’s and Diogo Dalot’s crossing abilities, it’s something they should have in the tool bag by now, and you’d assume United might find it to be a rather fruitful avenue for them, helping them to be more direct. 

More than just being a target man for crosses into the box, his presence would complement the increase in long balls from goalkeeper David De Gea, from nine per game over the last few seasons to almost 13 this season. 

Weghorst would have options to flick the ball on for a runner in behind or hold the ball up, turn and find someone with a floor pass. 

Teams might be tempted to drop a few yards in this case, which would likely detract from any high press they might impose on United during build-up. 

Despite only joining Burnley in January last year, Weghorst finished with the most presses per 90 minutes of any Premier League player, racking up 48.7. Manchester United do like to defend high up the pitch, but often lack the intent and energy required to truly throw their opponents into a panic. The 30-year-old has a track record of doing this to a high standard and sustaining it for the entirety of a game, as seen below. And if United’s back-four are capable of defending long balls, Weghorst could be the player to induce that type of tactic from opposing sides.