HERE WE GO 🔥 DONE DEAL ✅️: Manchester United complete the deal to sign a very aggressive striker who has been highly regarded as the defender’s nightmare – He’ll be given the No.7 shirt

HERE WE GO 🔥

DONE DEAL ✅️: Manchester United complete the deal to sign a very aggressive striker who has been highly regarded as the defender’s nightmare – He’ll be given the No.7 shirt

 

 

Old Trafford, Manchester – June 13, 2025

 

Manchester United have made a massive statement in the summer transfer market with the official announcement of a blockbuster signing: a fearsome, aggressive striker, long labeled by European defenders as a “nightmare to deal with,” is now Red. The club has confirmed the player will wear the iconic No.7 shirt, a number forever etched in Old Trafford folklore by legends like George Best, Eric Cantona, David Beckham, and Cristiano Ronaldo.

 

The identity of the striker has been under tight wraps for the past few days, fueling a frenzy of speculation. But United have now pulled the curtain back: the man leading their attack next season will be Santiago Morales, the 25-year-old Uruguayan forward formerly of Atlético Madrid.

 

Described as a relentless pressing machine, brutal finisher, and physically intimidating force, Morales arrives at United with one clear mission — restore the fear factor to the club’s frontline.

 

A New Era Begins

 

It’s a defining move not just for Manchester United, but also for new manager Rúben Amorim, who has wasted no time in stamping his authority. Morales, Amorim’s top transfer target, is expected to be a central figure in United’s tactical evolution.

 

The Portuguese tactician reportedly pushed the club’s board to close the deal quickly, amid interest from Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain. United acted decisively, sealing the transfer for a fee believed to be in the region of £78 million, with an additional £12 million in performance-based add-ons.

 

In a brief statement on the club’s website, United confirmed:

 

> “Manchester United is delighted to announce the signing of Santiago Morales from Atlético Madrid. The striker has signed a five-year contract and will wear the No.7 shirt.”

 

 

 

Who Is Santiago Morales?

 

For those unfamiliar with Morales, he’s a nightmare in every sense of the word for defenders. Standing at 6’2” with the strength of a traditional No.9 and the mobility of a winger, Morales combines South American intensity with modern attacking instincts. He scored 27 goals and registered 9 assists in all competitions for Atlético last season, drawing comparisons to a young Luis Suárez — but with even more physicality.

 

What sets Morales apart is his aggression without the ball. He presses relentlessly, tracks back, and bullies defenders with a confidence that borders on arrogance. A vocal leader on the pitch, he’s the type of player who demands more from his teammates, often clashing with defenders and goalkeepers in heated exchanges.

 

At Atlético, his passion won him admiration and fear alike. At Old Trafford, he’s expected to bring fire to a frontline that too often lacked bite last season.

 

The No.7 Shirt – A Heavy Symbol

 

Assigning Morales the No.7 shirt speaks volumes. It’s not just a number; it’s a symbol of greatness at Manchester United. Worn by iconic figures like Cristiano Ronaldo, the No.7 has become synonymous with creativity, courage, and charisma.

 

The shirt has also been a curse for many in recent years, with the likes of Ángel Di María, Alexis Sánchez, and Memphis Depay struggling under the weight of expectations. United believe Morales has the mentality to break the trend.

 

In his first interview with MUTV, Morales addressed the legacy of the number:

 

> “I know what the No.7 means at this club. I won’t disrespect it. I came here to score goals, fight for trophies, and make defenders suffer. That’s what this club deserves.”

 

 

 

Rasmus Højlund Situation Now Under the Spotlight

 

While fans celebrate the arrival of Morales, the move has created shockwaves within the squad — particularly for Rasmus Højlund, United’s £72 million signing from 2023.

 

Højlund endured a difficult second season, scoring just 8 goals and struggling to find form in a dysfunctional attack. He’s reportedly frustrated by the timing and magnitude of Morales’ signing and has even hinted at a potential exit if he’s pushed to the bench.

 

With Morales set to lead the line and Amorim already favoring a single-striker system, Højlund’s future could hang in the balance. His agent is said to be seeking assurances from the club, and several Serie A clubs are monitoring the situation.

 

Amorim’s Tactical Vision

 

Morales’ signing fits Amorim’s philosophy like a glove. Known for his 3-4-3 or 3-4-2-1 systems at Sporting, Amorim relies heavily on forwards who can initiate pressing, hold up the ball, and create space for inverted wingers. Morales is a prototype Amorim striker: aggressive, mobile, and relentless.

 

Amorim is reportedly planning to flank Morales with Marcus Rashford on the left and Alejandro Garnacho or Antony on the right, forming a devastating front three full of pace, power, and aggression.

 

Midfield support will be crucial, and United are still in the market for a creative No.10 to play behind Morales, potentially unlocking another gear in their attacking game.

 

Fan Reaction: A Wave of Excitement

 

Old Trafford faithful have erupted in excitement on social media. The club’s tweet announcing the signing reached 5 million views in under two hours, and Morales’ welcome video already has fans chanting “Morales! Morales!”

 

Some fan reactions include:

 

> “Finally a striker who looks like he eats centre-backs for breakfast!”

 

 

 

> “Give this man the ball and clear the way. No more soft touches up top!”

 

 

 

> “The No.7 curse is over. Let the terror begin.”

 

 

 

Pundits and Rivals React

 

Premier League legends like Roy Keane and Thierry Henry have already weighed in on the signing. Speaking on Sky Sports, Keane said:

 

> “This is the kind of player United have missed since Rooney. Someone who doesn’t just score, but fights. He’ll cause problems.”

 

 

 

Henry was equally complimentary:

 

> “Morales reminds me of the forwards defenders hate. He doesn’t give you peace, not for one second.”

 

 

 

Meanwhile, rival clubs are on alert. Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool all have robust defensive systems, but Morales’ unpredictability may pose a fresh challenge even for the best.

 

What’s Next?

 

Santiago Morales is expected to join the squad for preseason in early July and could make his first appearance in United red during the club’s US tour, which includes matches against Real Madrid, Inter Milan, and LA Galaxy.

 

The pressure is on — not just for Morales to perform, but for United to return to contention for major silverware. With no Premier League title since 2013 and growing expectations under Amorim, every move counts.

 

This signing may just be the start of something ruthless, aggressive, and unapologetically ambitious.

 

 

—

 

Manchester United have spoken loud and clear. With Santiago Morales,

the No.7 shirt, and a new vision under Rúben Amorim, the message is simple: We’re back, and we mean business.