Manchester United's Serhou Guirassy 'stance' detailed amid AFCON concern and more transfer rumours

Manchester United will 'push hard' to sign Serhou Guirassy in January despite his likely participation in the Africa Cup of Nations, according to reports.

United have been heavily linked with Guirassy in recent weeks as manager Erik ten Hag looks to add more attacking threat to his squad. The Dutchman is reportedly keen to bring in a more experienced No.9 in the hope they will take some of the pressure off Rasmus Hojlund, who is yet to score in the Premier League.

Guirassy has been in outstanding form for Stuttgart, with his 16 goals in 11 Bundesliga appearances second only to Bayern Munich's Harry Kane in the scoring charts. Such form has attracted interest from Europe's top clubs and according to Football Insider, United have no issue with the 27-year-old's planned absence from club football, particularly as he could be signed for just £15million.

A Guinea international, Guirassy looks set to join up with his compatriots for AFCON, which kicks off on January 13 and lasts around one month. But any move from United will likely see them compete with Newcastle, who are also keen to bring in a new striker amid ongoing injury issues with Callum Wilson.

ALSO READ: Howe reveals truth about Newcastle links with De Gea

ALSO READ: Van de Beek ‘being considered’ by Barcelona and more transfer rumours

Elsewhere, the Telegraph reports that Fulham face a battle to keep hold of Joao Palhinha in January amid interest from Bayern Munich and two unnamed Premier League clubs.

Palhinha was linked with a move to United over the summer as Ten Hag searched for reinforcements in defensive midfield. The Portuguese international eventually decided to join Bayern but after undertaking a deadline-day medical in Germany, his move fell through