Manchester United sign Wout Weghorst on loan from Burnely
Manchester United have completed the signing of Burnley striker Wout Weghorst on loan until the end of the season after his temporary spell at Besiktas was terminated
Erik ten Hag made no secret of the fact he wanted to strengthen his squad with a striker following the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo.
Besiktas confirmed Weghorst’s loan spell had been ended by mutual consent with the Turkish club saying they will receive a £2.5m compensation fee, paving the way for the 30-year-old to move to Old Trafford after Man Utd paid Burnley £2.6m.
“I feel privileged to be joining Manchester United,” Weghorst said.
“I’ve played against the club in the past and it’s a fantastic feeling to now have the chance to pull on the famous red shirt.
“I’ve seen United’s progress under Erik ten Hag this season and can’t wait to start playing my part in pushing the team towards its aims.”
“Whatever happens in the next few months, I can promise to give everything to the club for as long as I am here. I thank everyone who has played a part in getting me to this stage, and now I am looking forward to meeting my new team-mates and getting involved straight away.”
There were hopes that Man Utd would have the Netherlands international ready to face Man City at Old Trafford in the lunchtime kick-off on Saturday, but Ten Hag confirmed ahead of the game that the new signing had not been registered by the Friday midday deadline.
Weghorst, who could make his debut when United face Crystal Palace next Wednesday, scored nine goals and grabbed four assists in 18 appearances on loan at Besiktas.
He has 19 international caps for the Netherlands, scoring five goals, including two at the 2022 Qatar World Cup.
Manchester United football director John Murtough said: “Wout has a consistent goalscoring record across several European leagues, and his attributes will add a further dimension to our squad for the remainder of the season.
“We were also attracted by his strong personality and dedicated approach to football, which fits perfectly with the spirit that Erik is building within our squad.
“He has shown a huge desire to join Manchester United and be part of what we’re striving to achieve this season.”
