Marcus Tavernier should be the next Man United signing, the data is conclusive

Opinion piece arguing Manchester United should sign Bournemouth's Tavernier after he scored in a 3-0 win at Old Trafford; he has five goals in eight PL games this season.

Marcus Tavernier scored in Bournemouth's 3-0 victory at Old Trafford on Sunday, continuing a remarkable record at Manchester United's home ground. The winger has now scored in each of his last two visits to the stadium and contributed two assists in another 3-0 win there in 2023. He has five Premier League goals from just eight games this season and has become integral to Marco Rose's side.

OptaJoe data shows only Harry Kane and Steven Gerrard have more Premier League goal contributions at Old Trafford as visiting players than Tavernier's five. United were linked with him in the summer but pursued other midfield targets instead. Football Insider reported in March that Bournemouth would find it difficult to retain him long-term, with the club valuing him around £40 million. Tavernier is contracted until summer 2029, meaning any January move would require an offer exceeding £40m.