"Solskjr's admiration for Haaland was well documented. Having managed the Norwegian striker at Molde, Solskjr was acutely aware of his immense potential and believed he could become the focal point of United's attack for a decade. Despite United holding a long-standing relationship with Haaland, the club hesitated over release clauses, agent fees, and long-term control, a delay that allowed Borussia Dortmund to secure the striker before his eventual blockbuster move to Manchester City."
"Similarly, Solskjr pushed hard for Bellingham. United held talks with the teenager and his family, but concerns over pathway clarity and football structure reportedly played a role in Bellingham making a differenct choice for his career. He is now among the top players in the world and shining for Real Madrid where he has also won the Champions League. Rice was another key target."
"Solskjr viewed the West Ham captain as the ideal long-term anchor for United's midfield, a leader capable of becoming an influential player. However, United baulked at West Ham's valuation, a decision that later saw Rice join Arsenal for a record-breaking fee while United continued to search for midfield stability."
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer urged Manchester United to pursue Erling Haaland, Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice as long-term cornerstones. United instead completed signings including Donny van de Beek, Jadon Sancho and Cristiano Ronaldo. Solskjaer had managed Haaland at Molde and believed he could lead United's attack for a decade, but concerns over clauses and agent fees allowed Borussia Dortmund and later Manchester City to secure Haaland. United held talks with Bellingham and his family, but pathway clarity and structure concerns contributed to Bellingham choosing a different route and later thriving at Real Madrid. United rejected West Ham's valuation for Rice, who later joined Arsenal, leaving continued midfield instability.
Read at www.caughtoffside.com
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