Manchester United Signs Netherlands World Cup Hero Wout Weghorst on Loan

The Netherlands striker was previously on loan at Turkish side Besiktas before securing a move to Old Trafford.

Manchester United has announced the arrival of Netherlands forward Wout Weghorst on loan for the remainder of the season. 

The 30-year-old striker was previously on loan with Turkish giant Beşiktaş before being recalled by Burnley to complete his move to United. 

The forward was putting together a standout season while on loan at Beşiktaş with eight goals and four assists in 16 league matches. Last season, in the Premier League with Burnley, Weghorst scored only twice in 20 league matches.  

But his shining moment came in the World Cup quarterfinals last month against Argentina. With the Netherlands trailing the eventual World Cup champion by two goals, Weghorst was subbed on with less than 25 minutes remaining in regular time. The striker then went on to score both goals in stunning fashion, including an equalizer in the 11th minute of stoppage time, to force extra time and a penalty shootout Argentina eventually won.

United has had a tumultuous winter transfer window with the dramatic departure of Cristiano Ronaldo, but Weghorst arrives with the club looking for more attacking options. The 6’5” forward is known for his prolific poaching abilities in front of goal but also for his pressing acumen, which will fit right into Erik ten Hag’s system at United. 

Sky Sports reported Manchester United paid a £4 million ($4.9 million) fee to terminate the Dutch forward’s loan to Beşiktaş early and bring him to Old Trafford. Weghorst is not expected to be available for the Manchester derby Saturday, ten Hag told reporters before the signing became official.