Man Utd get Josh King transfer boost as Eddie Howe opens door to Bournemouth exit

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Eddie Howe has opened the door for Josh King to return to Manchester United.

Bournemouth striker King, 28, has been the subject of a rejected bid from United as the transfer deadline approaches.

The Norwegian came through the ranks at Old Trafford, making just two appearances for the club.

Cherries boss Howe was asked about the likelihood of King leaving as he faced the media ahead of his side's crunch relegation clash with Aston Villa.

And he suggested King is keen to return to United and hinted he could go for the right price.

"I don’t want to talk too much about Josh (King) because there’s still a day to go," Howe said.

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Joshua King of Bournemouth celebrates (Image: Robin Jones - AFC Bournemouth)

"Let’s wait and see. He’s a massive part of our team

"I understand Josh’s position and what Manchester United means to him."

United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is eager to strengthen his attack this month, with Marcus Rashford sidelined with a back problem.

King played under his countryman during his time with the United academy before leaving for Blackburn in 2013.

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Joshua King competes for the ball (Image: AFP/Getty Images)
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Joshua King with Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe (Image: Getty)

He talked up Solskjaer's appointment as United boss last season, insisting: "He was brilliant with me, and helped me. I know him as a person and a manager and have loads of respect for him.

"When he took over United I was very happy for him and his family because I know how much that meant for him as a person - it's always been his dream.

"I hope and believe he'll get United back to where they were."