Mauricio Pochettino explains why Manchester United could benefit from Mauro Icardi amid links

Mauricio Pochettino has described Paris Saint-Germain striker Mauro Icardi as a player that "every team needs" amid reports linking him with a move to Manchester United.

It has been reported from overseas that Icardi's agent and wife have held discussions with United over the possibility of him completing a move to Old Trafford. Icardi has been deemed surplus to requirements in the French capital and the club is working to find him a new home before the transfer window closes.

United manager Erik ten Hag is determined to add to his attacking options ahead of the window slamming shut and a new striker is high on his wish list. The Dutchman hoped to bring Bologna striker Marko Arnautovic to the club but saw the interest met with a wave of scathing criticism from the fans, partly forcing United into a rethink.

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Icardi, who turned 29 back in February, has not featured in any of PSG's opening three matchday squads so far this season, highlighting that his future lies elsewhere. He has built his career on scoring goals, with 124 strikes in 219 games for former club Inter Milan highlighting his capabilities.

Last season, however, Icardi struggled to score goals, netting just five in 30 appearances for PSG. But despite his struggles last term, he earned praise from former PSG head coach Pochettino, who expressed his thoughts on just how useful a weapon he can be.

"He surely wants to play more and be more of a star in a team, but every player here is important," said Pochettino, speaking towards the end of last year, while still in charge in the French capital. "His characteristics make him a killer in the final few metres of the pitch.

"He is the