Manchester United are being made to regret missing out on transfer wildcard

At the height of Manchester United's search for a striker during the summer transfer window, this author penned some thoughts about one that had just got away.

The man in question was French international Marcus Thuram who, for a short while, was available on a free transfer after leaving German outfit Borussia Monchengladbach. He left the club at the end of last season after turning down the offer of a new contract.

Thuram had spent four years at the Bundesliga club, scoring 44 goals and registering 29 assists in 134 appearances. His final season in Germany was his most productive in front of goal, scoring 16 goals in all competitions.

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With his numbers making such encouraging reading, it was hardly surprising that he was linked with some of Europe's biggest clubs, including the likes of United and Paris Saint-Germain. Eventually, however, it was Inter Milan that won the race for his signature, signing him towards the end of June.

Inter had ambitions of strengthening their ranks across the board after winning two trophies and reaching the UEFA Champions League final last season. Thuram, on paper, was a smart and eye-catching addition.

Less than four months after his switch to the San Siro was officially rubber-stamped, it is already looking as though it could be one of the signings of the summer across the whole of Europe. Making 11 appearances for the Italian giants so far, the 26-year-old has chalked up 11 direct goal contributions, scoring four goals and registering seven assists.

He has instantly established himself as a vitally important figure in head coach Simone Inzaghi's plans and